Windows 7 & OEM licensing
 

I'm looking to upgrade a couple PCs to Windows 7 (they currently are using XP). In the past, I've purchased the non-OEM licenses because I have a tendency to upgrade my PCs (CPU, motherboard) more often than changing operating systems. Has this purchase of the non-OEM license been the right move by me?

I just received a deal from Newegg to purchase Windows 7, but it's OEM only. It looks like most people purchase the OEM version only - what am I missing? Have I been overpaying? Do most people just not upgrade their CPU/motherboard combo?

Thanks!

The short answer to your question is yes, you have been overpaying. I'm pretty sure the only difference between OEM and retail is that Microsoft will not give phone support for an OEM version. For me this is fine because I have never called them for support anyhow.

I'm not sure what you mean by
"Do most people Just not upgrade their CPU/Motherboard combo?"

I see that as the whole point of the OEM version. You buy a new CPU, actually any hardware, and you qualify for an OEM purchase.

Yeah, I would just buy the student version if possible.

Buy and download Windows 7 Professional Upgrade, business features, Home Premium - Microsoft Store Online

It's my understanding that you can only use ONE CPU/motherboard combination with a single OEM copy of Windows. Therefore, if I wanted to upgrade the CPU or motherboard I would have to purchase a new OEM copy of Windows.

This is correct. Not saying it won't work, but this is what the license states.

I do remember grumbling about this when MS made the announcement. I thought this was accompanied with some draconian registration process that had to take place over the internet as your newly installed OS checked in with the mother ship.

I don't remember this happening when I installed my copy of Windows 7. Perhaps I've grown jaded and wasn't particularly offended when this happened, so it wasn't memorable.

I've read about people with the OEM calling and being able to get their key reset but I don't know how common it is.

But I just get the student version. I don't upgrade enough for it to be more expensive, though. The current sandy bridge and ivy bridge can easily last five years.