software for others

[tom1379]

Hi, i build some computers for friends and family but come to a problem with software, its really expensive if I wanted to nuy a new version of xp every time for example, is it legal and possiblr to buy one installation disc for os and works for example, and just buy a load of licenses for each person, if so does anyone know how to get such things, thanks for any help.

[bigandy]

It is not legal to use the same copy of XP over and over, unless it is a multi liscence copy. There are multi liscnence copies of XP, but I think they may only be available for businesses. You may want to contact MS about getting one. Or check out an online retailer, and see if you can find one.

[TheJackal]

Unless your ordering in huge quantity, I dont think Microsoft would sell you anything.

Have you thought about Linux? You could buy a retail packaged Linux distro. and then install it on as many computers as you like.

[bailey]

what your wanting to do is a good idea, but it don'r work that way the prive of any licenessing would be as much as the cost to just go buy ot at a discount store or on line.

installing one copy on serval systems is illegal.

[SonicVanguard]

You can buy a 3 pack OEM distribution for newegg:
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=37-102-142&catalog=368&manufactory=BROWSE&depa=6
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=37-102-144&catalog=368&manufactory=BROWSE&depa=6

I've also seen various retailers selling licenses only - usually they have a 5 license minimum.

Dave.

[Confused]

I just don't understand the question here. If you are building these PC's for others, then they need their own copy of XP in order to reload if they have a problem. They are paying for the copy of XP as part of the cost of the PC just as they are paying for the mobo, monitor, ect.

Maybe you can enlighten me as to why you would build them a PC with XP with no way of reloading the OS if they have a HD failure and no copy of XP.
Chas

[not important]

Originally posted by Confused
I just don't understand the question here. If you are building these PC's for others, then they need their own copy of XP in order to reload if they have a problem. They are paying for the copy of XP as part of the cost of the PC just as they are paying for the mobo, monitor, ect.
I had the same thoughts. The OS should be part of the price of the build.

[tom1379]

I want to do it like that because these are friends of mine so if something goes wrong I can reinstall it for them, but I do it because i am only 14 and im on quite a tight budget and i can build it for them for cheaper than a shop but if i have to buy a new copy of xp everytime, it would not be cheaper. Hope that explains it. Ps, thanx everyone for the links I might try and get one of those multiple copies from new egg

[tom1379]

sorry that is to 'not important' aswell:)

[TheJackal]

I dont believe Newegg ships to the UK.

[tom1379]

I shud be able to find it somewhere else, thanks

[TheJackal]

If you really wanted to cut your costs you could do a couple other things...

1. Sell the machines without an OS. You could sell them with a Linux distro that runs off of the CD to demonstrate that the machine works, but other then that, sell it OSless.

2. Sell the machines with an older operating system. Windows 98SE works best and is way cheaper then XP. While its not the greatest, ME might also be a wise choice. Or if the machine was a bit older NT 4.0 can be had for a little cheaper.

Just a couple of ideas.