What's the difference between OEM and retail?

[UncleS]

Looking at doing my first build. I was at newegg site and found they have both OEM and retail versions of XP. Since I am buying the hardware I can get the OEM no prob. But whats the difference? Why spend the extra $$$ for retail? Am I missing something?

[newme]

with oem you dont get microsoft support ,but then again who wants it.

[pam123]

I returned windows ME ( after calling MS support ) and got the money back and a new copy.
The cash went for 98se, the other copy I still have, unused.
This was MS support working.
For a first build I would buy retail. If you get a dud you get a replacement and your money back.
The next time you can go OEM.
Take every safety line that comes your way the first time.

[twborbely]

There is something you should know. Support for Windows 95 is gone and support for 98 will be in June. Microsoft will make you buy XP.

[Alfie]

If you have a Win98 disk, you can buy the XP upgrade disk and do a fresh install with it,if you don't, get the retail,unless you feel comfortable being your own tech support.If you are, get the oem version.

[pam123]

Originally posted by twborbely There is something you should know. Support for Windows 95 is gone and support for 98 will be in June. Microsoft will make you buy XP.

That's okay. I already have my copy of XP upgrade.
I'm just waiting for ATI to release the 9500pro so I can do it all at once.

[UncleS]

Ok thanks for the replies. I didn't know if there really was a difference or if it was just Microsoft going for blood yet again on liscencing.