Windows XP OEM And Retail

[ChrisG27]

I am upgrading my computer and want to upgrade my OS at the same time. When I was on Newegg.com I saw Windows XP Home Edtion OEM Full version and Retail Full version. There is $100 difference between the two. What is the difference? Is one better for an inexperienced person like myself?

Thanks,

Chris G.

 

[btvillarin]

OEM - CD and CD key only
Retail - Fancy package, plus OEM stuff

Make sure you really want Windows XP, because WPA can be a bummer if you switch hardware and stuff frequently.

<font color=red><A HREF="http://www.btvillarin.com" target="_new">btvillarin.com</A> - My Windows XP-based Website</font color=red>

 

[dangerpowers]

I also would like to know the difference between OEM and Retail packages. Can anyone give some insight to this?

 

[Arrow]

OEM stands for "original equipment manufacturers", and MS limits the OEM versions of their titles to only be sold with a new PC (or enough of what resembles one). In general, the maker of the product will not provide you with tech support - you will have to go to your computer manufacturer for that.
Retail versions, on the other hand, are meant for someone just going in to buy the product - so you will get a fancy box with all the manuals and packaging.

Rob
Please visit <b><A HREF="http://www.ncix.com/canada/about.php?affiliateid=319048" target="_new">http://www.ncix.com/canada/about.php?affiliateid=319048</A></b>

 

[eden]

Hmm I was worried about this WPA thing. So what if I format my drive, install a new one and put WinXP? What will I do to activate or are there any risks or problems from there?

--
Intel had 2.2GHZ Willies left...I bought one, it powered my entire neighborhood!

 

[btvillarin]

There's a <b>chance</b> you'll have to activate, which means a long arduous process of explaining to a rep. why you need to reactivate. There are workarounds to this, and maybe you can find some at <A HREF="http://www.langa.com" target="_new">Fred Langa's newsletter website</A>.

I wish I had better advice for you, but Microsoft has screwed people again. At least the operating system itself is pleasant to work with...

<font color=red><A HREF="http://www.btvillarin.com" target="_new">btvillarin.com</A> - My Windows XP-based Website</font color=red>