- Oct 10, 2005
- 1,219
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I realize I'm preaching to the choir here, but a friend of mine just got stung on this and I feel compelled to pass on the reminder.
He bought a version of Windows Server 2003 from AboveGroundSolutions.com (irony in the name,eh?) because it was $100 cheaper than most other bargain software outlets. I was looking at his server the other day, when I noticed his install disks said "not for retail or OEM distribution", and reminded him this was illegal.
Of course his E-mail to the software vendor was unanswered. If at some point MS decides the owner of that license key is reselling volume software illegally, you might find youself locked out of updates at some future point. Not worth the risk I say.
If the seller doesn't clearly state it's an OEM and the price is cheap, chances are the software is not legal for resale.
He bought a version of Windows Server 2003 from AboveGroundSolutions.com (irony in the name,eh?) because it was $100 cheaper than most other bargain software outlets. I was looking at his server the other day, when I noticed his install disks said "not for retail or OEM distribution", and reminded him this was illegal.
Of course his E-mail to the software vendor was unanswered. If at some point MS decides the owner of that license key is reselling volume software illegally, you might find youself locked out of updates at some future point. Not worth the risk I say.
If the seller doesn't clearly state it's an OEM and the price is cheap, chances are the software is not legal for resale.