Windows Vista 64bit OEM

[strep3241]

I have a legit Windows Vista Home Premium 64bit OEM that I used on my last build. I am not using it anymore since I upgraded to Windows 7. In fact, the machine that it was used on is not even in operation anymore.

Can I legally sell this being it is OEM? I have heard of people using the same OEM Windows even when they changed motherboards which is against the EULA. They just call Microsoft and tell them what the deal is and they let them keep using it.

If I did sell it, why couldn't the person I sell it to do the same thing? How would Microsoft know that it is different hands?

I know it is Vista and I would probably have a hard time selling it but it is just sitting around taking up space. What should I do with it? I just hate throwing stuff like this away.

If this is against the rules, I am sorry.

 

[ViRGE]

OEM = tied to the motherboard. So the only way you could sell it is to sell the motherboard with it. Furthermore this only applies if you didn't use an upgrade edition of Windows 7 for your upgrade; using an upgrade edition forfeits the previous license (which is why they're so cheap).

 

[strep3241]

I realize the oem Windows is tied to the motherboard. But I have heard many times that if somebody installs a new motherboard, all they have to do is call Microsoft, answer the questions the recording asks you and you will be able to use the same Windows. I realize it is not legal.

 

[UberNeuman]

I realize it is not legal.

You've answered your own question.

 

[SimMike2]

I don't think it is necessarily "tied to the motherboard" I think it is tied to the first computer it is installed on, which is more than just a motherboard. I would definitely not sell it, but you could probably install it in a computer and when it doesn't activate, call MS and tell them your motherboard blew up and you needed to replace it. I heard they are pretty understanding and will many times help you out. The fact is MS barely made any money over the past forty years, so you don't want to hurt a company that is barely keeping its head above water.