What is a Windows OEM?
An OEM edition of Windows is simply Windows without the extra packaging, peripherals, support and warranty included. It's used to supply system builders such as Dell or Gateway, but is technically available for anyone to purchase.
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The OEM Acronym
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OEM stands for "Original Equipment Manufacturer."
Advantages of OEM Editions
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The reason most people would want to buy an OEM edition of Windows is because it's cheaper. OEM versions of Windows Vista, for example, are $100 or more less than retail versions.
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Drawbacks to OEM Editions
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Since OEM editions come with no manual, very limited support, and are non-returnable once opened, OEM editions are typically not suited to beginner users.
Alternate Names
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OEM products are sometimes also referred to as "bulk" or "factory" products.
OEM Retailers
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You can buy OEM editions of Windows from many Internet retailers, including Buy.com, VioSoftware.com and BuyCheapSoftware.com. A good place to start would be to search for "Windows OEM" in Google's Product Search.
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