Windows installation media opinion.....

[wmrcomputers]

Just wondering on you guys thoughts on this....

Windows XP / Vista / 7 can be LEGALLY installed from a copied disc - FACT. It is the use of your product key which is on a sticker on the case which makes it legal - FACT.

Now... I've come across THIS on eBay which is obviously someone selling copies, however he is clearly stating that you must use your own product key from the machine you are installing it on so IMO theoretically he's not breaking the law.
Just wondered what your thoughts were??

Basically I ask because as I'm sure you're all aware it is RARE that new PC's come with a re-install CD these days. Also, with Netbooks being so vastly sold on the market which do not have a CD or DVD drive built in, this makes it almost impossible for them to re-install even if they were to get hold of a disc.
I've contemplated selling USB install keys ( a bootable USB memory stick with the windows installation files on it ) so that netbook users are able to re-install LEGALLY their operating system if they ever wish to do so.

Obviously my real question is "could I get in deep shet?"

One last thought, not profiting from the reproduction of the media - it could be argued that the cost covers the USB device and the time and knowledge required to produce a bootable installer

 

[wmrcomputers]

Also bear in mind that comapnies such as DELL have been re-producing discs like THIS for many moons... or do you think they have some special kind of rights?

 

[wmrcomputers]

Also stumbled on http://www.askdavetaylor.com/can_i_create_my_own_windows_xp_installation_cd.html in which this guy quotes...

However, if the purpose is to install the OS on a different computer, say a replacement unit, then an original setup disk would be needed. The easiest way to get a copy of an original disk (other than buying one) is to borrow and copy a disk from a friend. This would be perfectly legal provided you have your own install keys, as you suggest.

If this is true I expect it would be ok

 

[Wookie]

Hmm. Interesting...
Fancy being a test case?

 

[dylanf]

Microsoft says

it is ILLEGAL to sell an OEM version of Windows that has already been installed on another PC. Most people have an oem licence, you would need to provide an "oem install" for their key to work, catch 22

 

[dylanf]

I would read the EULA very carefully.

 

[dylanf]

Also, I'll but some USB os install thingys off you. They would come in really handy

 

[wmrcomputers]

Microsoft says

it is ILLEGAL to sell an OEM version of Windows that has already been installed on another PC. Most people have an oem licence, you would need to provide an "oem install" for their key to work, catch 22

It would be OEM installs.
Again, it's a tough one to call. Are Microsoft reffering to the actual PRODUCT KEY rather than the MEDIA? If you were to say that the media itself can't be installed on another PC then that would be laughable. No doubt even PC World have used the same XP disc to legally install hundreds of systems using the customers own licence keys just like I have... what other way is there!
I've also read in some forums that Microsoft have never copyrighted the actual media, just the licences to which it applies. Others have said that the EULA also states that you are allowed to make a backup copy of the disc for your own use - which does kind of imply that it's just the licence key which makes it all legal.

Also, I'll buy some USB os install thingys off you.

Lol - not a problem!
As soon as I've bought in some USB keys I'll give you a shout. What OS's did you want? You'll probably be looking at £10 each for XP (seperate home and pro ones) and £15 each for Vista and 7 (will install all versions)

Another great thing about using a USB key to install it is that it tends to be MUCH faster than using CD or DVD media. For example when you "press any key to boot from CD" on a windows XP disc, it takes around 30 seconds or so to reach the first screen where you press enter to install, F8 to agree etc etc. I used an XP key today and this part took literally 4 seconds!!

 

[wmrcomputers]

If anyone wants one / some, all OS's are £10 each supplied on a 4gb memory pen, around 2 to 3 working day turn around from ordering until ready to pick up.
Availability....
Windows XP Home OEM(with SP3) x86
Windows XP Pro OEM (with SP3) x86
Windows Vista all versions OEM (with SP1) x86
Windows Vista all versions OEM (with SP1) x64
Windows 7 RETAIL (all versions) x86 & x64

Hopefully will soon have Windows 7 OEM

PM me if interested
Cheers