Windows Server 2003

[hamidjunior]

I've found quite reliable and cheap source to purchase various editions of Windows Server 2003 OEM. I was wondering:

1) How do I authenticate the software not installing it, but just using the key on COA?
2) Do I have to attach a random piece of harware to oblige with M$ rules to resell the OS?
3) Any other things I should know to resell various editions of Windows Server 2003 OEM?

Thanx guys.

 

[RebateMonger]

Originally posted by: hamidjunior
1) How do I authenticate the software not installing it, but just using the key on COA?
2) Do I have to attach a random piece of harware to oblige with M$ rules to resell the OS?
3) Any other things I should know to resell various editions of Windows Server 2003 OEM?

If you are finding "OEM" software at significantly below the Retail Price, the software is, doubtless, either conterfeit or not being sold in compliance with MS's licensing terms. There ARE no bargains in "legitimate" current Microsoft software.

1) I know of no way to verify authenticity of COA keys other than activating the software.
2) Microsoft's current licensing terms for selling OEM software are:
a) It must be sealed with disk and COA
b) Once installed on a PC, it must stay with the original motherboard.
c) If it is labeled "For use with new XXX-brand PCs only", it must be sold only WITH a new XXX-brand PC.
3) See my first sentence.

 

[stash]

Your reliable and cheap source is a pirate. They are either selling Not For Resale copies of the OS, or they are selling pirated OEM copies of the OS. Both are illegal.

 

[nweaver]

not to mention that most people get thier server licenses WITH A SERVER...

I think we have purchased 2 licenses over the last 3 years seperate from a server. All the rest we just buy a new server with the license.

 

[spikespiegal]

Legit copies of Server 2003 (not SBS) OEM tend to run about $699 on average. That's the best way to tell if it's legit or not.

I did see it at eDirectSoftware for $599. They claim it's a retail version, but I'd get it in writing first.

http://www.edirectsoftware.com/products.php?product_id=16254

My boss recently bought Server 2003 for $449 from AboveGroundSolutions, and sure enough, it was a Not for Resale version, which we all know is illegal.