License Glossary
What Is a OEM License?
An OEM license is a license type designed for computer manufacturers that binds to the hardware (motherboard) it is installed on. It is usually the most economical permanent option.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) licenses pair with the motherboard on first activation. Changing RAM, disks or graphics cards does not affect the license; if the motherboard changes, the license cannot move to the new board.
For people planning to use the same computer for a long time, it offers the best price/benefit balance. Frequent hardware upgraders should check the type comparison before buying.
What you should know
- Binds to the motherboard; a motherboard change requires a new license
- RAM/disk/graphics card changes do not affect the license
- The most economical permanent option for long-term single-PC use