[geeks] From a local mailing list

[Dan Sikorski]

Jonathan C. Patschke wrote:

> That's the OEM edition.  You aren't licensed to run OEM software unless
> you purchase it with a computer (or some substantial component thereof,
> like a system board).

It's also worth mentioning that an OEM license is tied to the machine it 
was purchased with.  It is non-transferrable, and cannot be installed on 
any other PC.  This means, when you replace the machine, you have to buy 
office again.  OEM licences are designed for home users who want to get 
all the software they need with the PC, and won't upgrade until they buy 
a new PC.  (/me just went through an Enterprise License agreement with 
MS.)  Bottom line, buy the retail box, becuase if you're going to be 
illegal, there's no reason to spend money doing it.  (Also, if anyone 
out there is buying more than 5 copies of MS software, you should be 
buying it with a Open License agreement, not retail or OEM, you'll get 
better pricing)

    -Dan Sikorski