So, in an effort to save money, I’ve decided to build my next computer (with the aid of a tech-savvy friend) but I have a question about my operating system.
While I’m doing this, I think I’d like to go ahead and upgrade to Windows Vista. I know it’s a little buggy, but it seems to be the way things are going, and I’d like to give it a try. Now, my question is, can I use an OEM version of Vista, like that found here:
or do I need to use the home buyer’s version like that found here:
So, essentially, do I qualify as a system builder since I’m building my computer from scratch? or do I need a regular retail license?
The OEM version requires support be handled by the seller, and not Microsoft. It’s no big deal for me, so I get the OEM. I have never called Microsoft in all these years for support. You still download updates and use the FAQs section of Microsoft when you want a problem solved. The places that sell the MB and such don’t normally have a problem selling you the OEM version. They likely won’t give you OS support either, because you built the system.
When last I looked into this matter, you were allowed to get the OEM version if you bought it at the same time as the hard drive it was going to be installed on. That was a long time ago, though, and the regulations might be different now. Still, if you’re buying everything from parts, you’ll probably be OK.
Yes, you do qualify as a systembuilder.
I have just built a new machine for my friend next door, bought all the components from Overclockers including Vista Home Premium.
It would have still been OK to buy the OS with fewer components - a motherboard, processor and hard drive would have qualified.
*Edit - correct? spelling - *: Vista Hope Premium
Ok, so aside from the lack of technical support, which I have never used in the life of my pc career, I’m essentially getting the same product?
Ok, the License agreement on the outside of the box gave me momentary pause, but seems like it should be ok.
Thank you.
Yes, the differences are more legal than technical. A full retail licence can be transferred to another PC should you wish. An OEM licence is tied to the system you build, and can’t be transferred. Retail licences also confer upgrade and downgrade rights, although the OEM licences for Vista Business/Ultimate and XP Pro do confer downgrade rights to the equivalent tier of the previous version of Windows.
At least in my neck of the woods any computer equipment at all will suffice. One retailer I know sells a €5 mouse that entitles you to buy an OEM copy of Windows.
You can easily buy OEM licences without any accompanying hardware at all. Whether that entitles you to use the licence would depend on a court’s interpretation of the licence. Has Microsoft have ever brought the matter to court?
You should really look into the cost of building your own verses buying from dell or gateway. Unless you are reusing some things from an old computer I think you will find you are not saving money.
If you have other reasons beyond money for wanting to assemble your on go for it. I personally buy have build most of my PCs and I will tell you www.newegg.com has very good prices on computer parts.
I always get the OEM version. You will absolutely not save money building if you buy the consumer version. Dell, Gateway and the other big computer companies pay less for windows than even the OEM price which is one of the big reasons you will not save money rolling your own.