The Difference Between OEM and Retail Versions of Windows Operating System

We’re betting our Christmas dinners that not many people aren’t aware that there’s such a thing as an OEM version of Windows OS and Retail version of the same Windows OS, let alone the difference between the two.

So, what is the difference?

OEM is short for Original Equipment Manufacturer. This is the Windows operating system with its license referring to the installed Windows OS on pre-built and manufactured computers, laptops, and some tablets for sale to consumers in stores or online. For this reason, it’s very likely that the Windows you’re using right now is OEM. The primary limitation for this version is that you cannot install this same system and its same license key on another computer, even if you uninstall it from the original computer first.

Many people find this very impractical, and may even feel that it’s very restrictive, but the manufacturer saves money on a bulk number of licenses by accepting that restriction and passed their savings on to you. And this works out for most people most of the time. It’s rare that someone would benefit from the ability to transfer their Windows installation given that a new computer purchase usually comes with a new OEM license.

The Retail version of Windows operating system is a retail license for the need for installation on multiple computers. It’s usually sold as a single installer that can be installed on some 3 or 4 or more computers. It’s only available as a standalone purchase so if you’ve bought a copy of Windows on its own, separately from a computer, then you have this version. To be clear, though, the OS can still only be installed on one computer at any given time. This means that, for instance, if you decide to upgrade, you can buy a computer with no OS, uninstall your retail version of Windows from the old box, and install it on the new one. It’s a way to save money if you know that you’ll be sticking with Windows long term. Another advantage of the retail version is that if you have different devices, say a PC, a laptop, and a PC, all you need to buy is a single Windows OS installer to install Windows in all three. You don’t need to buy three separate installers.

Another difference between the two is that OEM copies do not come with any support from Microsoft. If you need to call Microsoft, you must pay a fee to do so. Retail copies come with a phone support. To be clear, the free upgrade to Windows 10 is for lower versions starting with Windows 7, regardless of whether the OS is OEM or retail. However, the free upgrades were only until last July.

Some Secret Tricks That You Should Know About Your Windows Computer

Who doesn't know a Windows computer? Some say that it’s challenging to use, while some claim to be experts in navigating a Windows computer.

Here are some tricks that I’ll share to you to use your Windows computer like a pro.

Show Window’s desktop shortcut

Windows desktop is like an organizer where all the application tends to be used on daily basis or displays essential items. Frequently used applications could be spreadsheet, word pad, browser, etc., and there could be tens of it open all at once. Need to go back to the Desktop screen without minimizing all the programs one by one? Simply press the Windows key + D and viola! You’re back on the Desktop screen in no time. Alternatively, you can hover your mouse at a rectangular bar at bottom-right corner, just right beside the time, and click it to where it says Show desktop.

Selecting multiple items on Windows explorer the easier way

Who doesn’t have lots of “selfies” or photos during vacation? After uploading them to a social networking site and you want to delete the photos you no longer need afterwards, it could take you some time if you go with the old procedure of pressing CTRL + arrow down keys to delete the photos. Same goes with clicking each one and pressing Delete to perform the task. Here’s how to make it easier without tapping on multiple keys. Select the folder that contains the files, then click the Organize button. Choose the Folder and search options, then on the Folder dialog box, click on View, and then Advanced settings. Scroll down, and then check the Use check boxes to select items box. If you’re viewing on a thumbnail view, you will see a blank box on the left side. Just check to select the file, and then choose the task you want – whether you want to delete, copy, or move the selected files.

Set up an external monitor for laptops

External monitors can be connected to laptops using the classic VGA, DVI, and HDMI output. With Windows 7, simply press the short cut keys Windows + P, and a pop-up menu with four options will appear: Computer only, Duplicate, Extend, and Projector only. Using your laptop’s LCD lets you revert video settings with Computer Only. Duplicate displays on the external monitor with what you have on the laptop. Extend stretches the Windows desktop across the laptop display to the external output. With Projector only, it blanks the laptop screen and gives way to the projector.

Disabling Balloon Tips on the Taskbar

Balloon Tips on the taskbar are usually friendly reminders that the firewall is disabled, Windows updates are available, or shows you the status of your Desktop icons. But sometimes, these pop ups can be annoying, especially if it shows up while we’re in the middle doing some important report or task. These notifications are triggered by Windows 7’s Action Center, which is the flag icon at the lower right-hand corner of the taskbar. If you want to remove these pop-up notifications, right-click on the flag icon, then select Open Action Center. Click the Change Action Center Settings link, and you will get the Turn messages on and off screen. From there, you can uncheck the messages that you don’t want to be notified of. Once you’re done, click OK.

How to disable Hibernation

By default, Windows 7 consumers hard drive space when it is in Hibernate state. Some users prefer to keep their PCs on, especially if they’re going to leave it while the computer is rendering some task. To disable the Hibernate feature and save some space on the hard drive, launch REGEDIT and go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power, then set HibernateEnabled and HiberFileSizePerfect to Zero.


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Article Written By: Mary Grace Viernes - Supportrix Tech Engineer