OEM / System Builders Windows 7 Licensing Question

[urbanriz]

Hi All,

I am looking to get some info on licensing for Windows 7. I was thinking of doing a small side biz of building systems but wanted to know how to go about installing windows 7 for users legally.

Can one buy OEM versions and install/sell?
I would have to buy new OEM Windows 7 everytime I build?
Is there a cheaper way, legally?

Any info is much appreciated.

Riz

[BohemianGraham]

http://www.microsoft.com/oem/en/lice..._faq.aspx#faq3 - Officially from Microsoft. Not sure if it will help.

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/w...f7b9231?page=2 - Microsoft users forum topic

http://www.zdnet.com/blog/bott/what-...licensing/1514

A lot of fun reading here.

[urbanriz]

Thanks BohemianGraham .. have you built/sold a system yourself, if you don't mind me asking of course? Have you ever dealt with Windows 7 OPK?

Check out:
http://www.microsoft.com/oem/en/down...ows_7_opk.aspx

In particular check the OPK Downloads. I am not too sure what this is, if anyone can shed some light please do. Is this the installer for the Windows 7 OEM?

[BohemianGraham]

Built yes, sold no. I've never used OPK. I just used some Google-Fu to find info for you. I recently built myself a new desktop, and installed an OEM edition of 7-Pro on it. But as those articles point out, it's a grey area for people to use OEM editions, and Microsoft isn't even sure if people can use them for home use if they aren't selling.

Edit: Places like Newegg.ca sell copies of OEM Windows, for example can pay 130 for one, or 460 for 3 if you want the Pro version:

http://www.newegg.ca/Product/Product...dows+7&x=0&y=0