Windows 2000 Pro question

[mr krinkle]

I am upgrading to 2000 Soon and my question is this.

http://www.softwarenextday.com/Micro...XP_Pro_s/2.htm

Has
a New 2000 Pro for 109.00 but it says ""Full Version, OEM.Includes CD, key code, license on CD. NO Manual, NO COA." What does no COA mean? If I have the key code thats all I need to install it right?

[Markoman01027]

Yes, I believe so..if it was illegal, they wouldn't be selling it that way. Go for it.

[PMich]

I do believe COA is certificate of authenticity. Don't know how that relates to legality.

[mr krinkle]

OK guys thanks,i know it was kind of worded wrong but I just want to make sure i have all of my bases covered on this.

[el_novato]

Don't do it. COA=Certificate of Authenticity. Authenticity is the key word. If it doesn't have a COA, it's considered illegal. Wherever you purchase it from, make sure you get a COA.

e.n.

By the way, where did you hear about that site? There's been alot of junkmail going around with websites similar to the one you linked to. You'd be better off paying an extra $20 or $30 and buying from a trusted website such as www.newegg.com or www.directdeals.com.

[LawyerRon]

mr krinkle,
The OEM version of Windows was originally intended for shops that built PC's; they didn't need the box, manual, and support from Microsoft so they got a better deal. They only needed the CD disk. Today, everyone can purchase OEM versions of XP, 2000, etc. The only legal requirement being that "it must be purchased with hardware", which means just about anything, ie, a mouse, IDE cable, etc. will qualify.

I only buy OEM operating systems because of the price. Check with newegg and mwave; both offer OEM vesions of 2000 that are fully legal and include the Certificate of Authenticity.

Personally, I would take XP Pro over 2000. Mwave has it (OEM) for $134. They have 2000 Pro for $145. They also have XP Home (fine for home use) for $84.

You can shop all of them here:
http://www.mwave.com/mwave/ProdSOFTW...MICROSOFT.hmx?

Compare their prices with www.newegg.com as they might be a bit cheaper.

Either vendor would be a fine choice. And a legal one too.

[mr krinkle]

Thanks LawyerRon,just like the tax code I am starting to understand all of this.

[Mac Medic]

All OEM licenses should come with a COA, it's the sticker that must be affixed to the case, without it, it's considered an illegal copy, stay well away.