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What’s the difference between OEM, Retail, and Volume licenses?

OEM, Retail, and Volume licenses

When purchasing Microsoft software like Windows or Office, you are most likely to encounter three kinds of licenses:

OEM, Retail, and Volume. While each one can be used to key the same Microsoft products, they vary greatly in terms of flexibility, transfer rights, support, and use cases.

We at Tech Licence make you aware of the major differences so that you can buy the correct license - legally and confidently.


OEM (Original Equipment Maker) License

An OEM license usually comes pre-installed on new PCs or purchased for DIY/custom PC building. It's bound irreversibly to the hardware (often the motherboard) of the first device it is activated upon.


  • Single license activation on a single machine

  • Cannot be transferred to another computer

  • No direct Microsoft customer support

  • Lower price compared to retail


Perfect for single users or PC aficionados who are installing Windows onto a lone fixed machine.


Note: As soon as you replace your motherboard or PC, the OEM license is invalid and a new one needs purchased.


Retail License

A Retail license is purchased from Microsoft or authorized resellers. It can be activated on one machine at a

time, but can be transferred to another computer if necessary.


  • Complete Microsoft support provided

  • Transferable across devices

  • May be reinstalled after hardware modifications

  • Generally pricier than OEM


Best for students, professionals, and small business users who require flexibility in device upgrades or


Volume License (VL)

Volume licenses are for businesses, schools, and government agencies that must activate

the same product on several computers.


  • Mass deployment (5+ licenses) integrated

  • Centralized activation and management through Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC)

  • Comprises software such as KMS or MAK

  • Reduced cost per unit for large orders


Best for medium to large businesses. Avoid third-party websites selling very low Volume

keys - they're usually illegal


Which License Do You Need?

Home consumers and students must pick Retail licenses for ease and official support.

PC manufacturers who depend on a single machine can employ the low-cost OEM.

Organizations and businesses that require scalable solutions must apply Volume licenses.


 
 
 

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