Most people are confused when buying either software or hardware and it states OEM. I'll try to explain the facts below and also what you may want to think about before buying OEM.

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is the name of the software already installed on your PC when it is supplied by the dealer. It is usually Windows, but may also be other products. Common to these software products is that they do not require any license agreement with Microsoft. The software "lives and dies" with the PC and may not be copied to other PCs.

OEM Software

When purchasing a new computer you will usually receive a package of software. All this software is OEM and there are no manuals and very limited support. The support lies with the computer manufacturer and NOT the sofware developer!

OEM software can only be purchased legally with a new computer or new motherboard!

Be aware that the OEM software license dies with the computer. There is no way to transfer a license legally from one computer to a new one. Please have a look at FPP software.

Full Package Product (FPP)

Also referred to as a "Retail version" of the software products you can buy in boxes in retail or from a Microsoft reseller. Products may be purchased by everyone and requires no licensing agreement with Microsoft.

FPP is directed primarily to individuals and businesses that only need small amounts of software. If you have more than three computers, you should explore a volume license (This rule varies from vendor to vendor).

FPP is packaged in boxes containing a CD with the software and a manual for the product.

License to FPP software called an End User License Agreement (End User License Agreement).

This software can be transferred to a new computer!

OEM Hardware

Most OEM hardware has limited functionality and you may not be able to install the full driver from the manufacturers homepage. Drivers have to be downloaded from the computer manufacturers homepage instead. This hardware is also referred to as LE (Light Edition).