OEM operating systems , can I still use them when I upgrade my hardware?

[jbslow]

I was thinking about getting a OEM operating system cause they are so much cheaper but will I be able to use this cd later when I upgrade my hardware? They always say you must purchase with hardware so I'm thinking they are some how locking the software with some specific harware. I remmember this happened with my IBM when I upgraded although all they gave me with that sysem was a product recovery cd.

Also if I buy a sealed OEM OS off ebay will I be able to use it on my computer or what?

[RED Hot Machine]

Standard OEM is not locked to your hardware. You do tend to get hardware locked software as part of o bundle with a machine. For example The OS disk that came with my dads laptop will not work on my machine, even though I would not do this as it is ilegal. But the OEM copy of WIN2k I have works ok on my machine and I've upgrade NIC's and video cards and not had a problem.

" They always say you must purchase with hardware so I'm thinking they are some how locking the software with some specific harware " - This is to do with the licensing, I believe that manufactors get the the OS cheaper when bundling with new machines. OEM versions of software are not ment to be sold direct to the consumer. I belive this is how it works, If i'm wrong someone please correct me.

[minoukat]

Normally (@ least for me), OEM Restore CDs that come with an pre-built system are locked to the BIOS. IE, I can't run my QuickRestore CDs that came with my Compaq on my HP, and I can't use the restore CDs HP gave me on the compaq, only because of the bios. It's some encryption or something **I think**

[jbslow]

Ok guys thanks for the impute I have the 98 OS running on my first system the IBM which came with a recovery cd now I've already conceided this wount work on any newer system I will use. This is why I've bought a retail version of 2kpro which I am using on my main system actually the only operational sytem.

What I am wondering is at ebay people are selling OEM software that may or may not be usable. I am wondering if the OEM software will work on my IBM or maybe my next sytem , I know at a retailer you have to puchase hardware along with the OEM OS so I am kind of assuming these OEM versions (ebay) are going to be useless to me. ??? So does anyone have an OEM version of any OS that they have used on an updated system ( new MOBO , new CPU , new HDD) if you have than I can buy this software without worring it will not work on my IBM or again my next setup if and when it comes or I could dual boot for awile with the main until I get the IBM working again or just build another system.

As of right now I own the rights to 2 seperate OS I am looking for a third if you can , please help.

[RED Hot Machine]

I'm using an OEM version of 2K myself and it works ok. The main difference between OEM and retail is the packaging. All you get with the OEM version is the cd, serial code and a quick guide.

The OEM version they are selling on Ebay appears to be the same as what i'm using, so you will be ok using it on your current machines and on future ones.