OEM Software - bogus or not??

[mbs081200]

I apologize if this is a naive question but, I have received several e-mails for on-line OEM software stores which offer Microsoft software at hard to believe prices (even if they are OEM). Everyting APPEARS to be legal but......

Are these places actually legitimate? What is the catch?

 

[RichPLS]

Some are, some are not...
But OEM is just original equipment manufaturer...

Basically it is intended to be sold with hardware, and does not have the upgrade feature included with retail versions.

Also, tech support is not with the software company, but with the dealer of the products...

But OEM discs are valid as proof purchase as needed to buy future upgrade at reduced prices.

 

[Jake_Barnes]

I apologize if this is a naive question but, I have received several e-mails for on-line OEM software stores which offer Microsoft software at hard to believe prices (even if they are OEM). Everyting APPEARS to be legal but......

Are these places actually legitimate? What is the catch?

OEM software is available from reputable on-line merchants (Newegg, Zip-Zoom-Fly, etc), but unsolicited offers with outragious prices, I'd be cautious. If it sounds too good to be true ... you know the rest. Check the biz rating for the merchant. Often it's an illegal CD without a legitimate Key, etc.

Most Legitimate OEM software requires you to buy hardware with it to qualify. It's designed for builders, smaller business that intend to sell the machine ... not really the end-user.

I'd be cautious of the email solicitations. 8)