[johntech2]

HI everyone, I just want to make sure that my info is right. If I love to reinstall my OS when I feel like ,cause I like to format my HD when I think is too contaminated , or cause I want to rebuilt my machine upgrading the CPU, cause ...whatever reason, the OEM version of my OS will not do., only if I buy the retail version I can reinstall it whenever I like. right or wrong?
thank you

[Skivvywaver]

Wrong. The OEM version is tied to the machine it is first installed on and in my experience easier to activate than the retail version. The OEM version takes a look at the machine it is being installed on and if the hardware is correct, it activates.

[DaveA]

In todays world there is NOT any differences between the two. The only thing the OEM does to the OS is maybe change some defaults and customize the Help area. They do ADD extras programs and drivers to support their hardware. They also provide the "Trial" packages that they are paid to install, but can be remove.

With MOST OEM's using the "System Recover" (reset to Factory settings) the process takes a lot less time. Most even have a check of list the you need not reinstall that added trial software. But one needs to go up to the OEM website and check out ALL of the updates that they have for your make and model.

[Skivvywaver]

I believe the poster was asking the difference between OEM such as...http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16832116213

and retail such as ....http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16832116140

In that case, there is no difference other than it ties itself to the first machine it is activated on.

Recovery disc's are a whole other animal.

[johntech2]

I read this somewhere:
"The OEM license is NOT "just a cheaper license,"
but has very specific limitations. Once you activate the OEM license on a machine,
that license is tied to the hardware on that machine. In other words,
it is non-transferable. You can upgrade components, but MS has specific
and complex guidelines on that. Upgrade too much (your CPU and mobo, for example),
and MS will say that you have built a new machine and refuse to re-activate your
OEM-licensed OS. If you want to be able to transfer your copy of Vista to other PCs,
or if you plan to upgrade the major components of the PC that this will be installed on,
get the full retail license. OEM is cheaper for a reason."
is it right or wrong?

[Skivvywaver]

That is correct but.....I have gone from an X2 4400+ to an Opteron 185 and also from a set of X1800's in crossfire to a set of HD3870's in crossfire with no issues. It is mainly looking at the motherboard I believe.

[johntech2]

so how can I make sure that nobody gona ask me to reactivate when i reinstall? If I change my mobo I am in trouble ?

[Skivvywaver]

Yeah, if you change your motherboard it had better have the same chipset and same pinout or you are going to have to call M.S. and see if they are in a good mood or not. OEM is tied to the motherboard you install it on. I keep a machine about 5 years and this one is a little over 2 years old. Barring a total motherboard failure I will be OK with OEM.

By the time I need a new machine there will be a new O.S. to install on it. I have reinstalled a few times and have never had any issues with activation.

[johntech2]

I will meditate on that...thanks

[DaveA]

In the past most single hardware changes do not require reactivation. That said, one can make several changes in a matter of a few days and this may require that one reactivate their OS.