Tom's Hardware > Forum > Windows XP > Windows XP General Discussion > Windows XP OEM And Retail
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ChrisG27   05-13-2002 at 09:09:56 PM

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.

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btvillarin   05-13-2002 at 11:51:24 PM
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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>

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dangerpowers   05-13-2002 at 11:52:56 PM
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I also would like to know the difference between OEM and Retail packages. Can anyone give some insight to this?

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Arrow   05-14-2002 at 02:27:55 AM
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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>

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eden   05-14-2002 at 03:43:55 AM
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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! :smile:

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btvillarin   05-14-2002 at 04:41:08 AM
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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... :smile:

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

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