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    Why is there no retail version of Windows 8?

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by The Fire Snake, Feb 23, 2013.

  1. The Fire Snake

    The Fire Snake Notebook Virtuoso

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    I read this somewhere and it seems to be true. I can't find a retail version, just OEM/system builder and upgrade version. I am thinking about the situation where you have no previous version of Windows to upgrade from and you don't want the restrictions of OEM. What do you guys say about this?
     
    The Fire Snake, Feb 23, 2013
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  2. S.SubZero

    S.SubZero Notebook Deity

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    What OEM restrictions do you refer to?
     
    S.SubZero, Feb 23, 2013
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  3. The Fire Snake

    The Fire Snake Notebook Virtuoso

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    The OEM restrictions are when you install it on 1 machine, you can't uninstall and install it on another. You can do this with the retail version. Also the OEM versions are tied to main components such as MOBO. If your MOBO dies and you replace with another, you might need to jump through hoops to reactivate the OEM version(I know there are people who say they have not had problems, but I am just saying...). You don't have to worry about any of this with the retail version.
     
    The Fire Snake, Feb 23, 2013
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  4. S.SubZero

    S.SubZero Notebook Deity

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    http://personaluselicense.windows.com/en-US/default.aspx

    "Can I transfer the software to another computer or user? You may transfer the software to another computer that belongs to you. You may also transfer the software (together with the license) to a computer owned by someone else if a) you are the first licensed user of the software and b) the new user agrees to the terms of this agreement. "

    Windows has had these limits since XP. Activation, particularly retail activations, are tied to hardware.

    Technical Details on Microsoft Product Activation for Windows XP

    "Product activation relies on the submission of the Installation ID. The Installation ID is specifically designed to guarantee anonymity and is only used by Microsoft to deter piracy. The Installation ID is comprised of two different pieces of information — the product ID and a hardware hash (a hash is a numeric value derived through a mathematical formula and based upon some other, original value). "
     
    S.SubZero, Feb 23, 2013
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  5. Prostar Computer

    Prostar Computer Company Representative

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    System Builder licensing did indeed replace retail. It became an option during Windows 7's reign, and as another contrivance against "hot loading" upon Windows 8's introduction.

    It certainly saves money (full retail versions of Windows 7 use to sell at up to $300+ for the Ultimate edition) but for the hobbyist, it would be nice to have the option of a retail product still.
     
    Prostar Computer, Feb 25, 2013
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