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General discussion

What's the difference...

by freakwithahat Apr 1, 2007 1:25PM PDT

Between the various denominations of Vista? I don't mean Ultimate, Premium, Business, and Basic. What I mean what's the difference between the Full on $5000000000000000 version, the Upgrade version, an the system builders version? Thanks for your help.

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4 Posts
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Well...
by John.Wilkinson Apr 1, 2007 1:34PM PDT

OEM: Once it is installed on a PC it can never be installed on another and you receive no technical support.

Upgraders: You must have a previous qualifying version of Windows installed and upgrade from it. Clean installations are prohibited.

Retail: None of the above restrictions...you receive technical support, and perform a clean install, and can transfer the license from one computer to the next.

As to Ultimate, Home Premium, etc, I suggest you consult this comparison chart.

Hope this helps,
John

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Thanks... one more question
by freakwithahat Apr 1, 2007 1:36PM PDT

I've heard that for the OEM and Upgrade versions, you can't change the internal parts of your PC without possibly screwing up Vista. Is this true? Because I can't imagine sticking with the same components for a few years.

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Well...
by John.Wilkinson Apr 1, 2007 1:40PM PDT

With any version of Windows Vista (as well as Windows XP), if you make a large change or a large number of changes you may have to call Microsoft's toll-free number and have them give you a confirmation code. With OEM copies, you cannot change the motherboard out...once you do the license is automatically voided. Aside from that there are no additional restrictions on upgrades.

John

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(NT) Thank you very much for your help.
by freakwithahat Apr 1, 2007 1:46PM PDT
Back to Windows Vista forum

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