One is for normal Windows users, at least in theory most Windows users dont actually buy boxed copies of Windows.Īnother is for people building computers and preinstalling Windows, or maybe building their own PCs it seems to go back and forth with each Windows release. The System Builder installation media will install just like a standard retail or Full Version edition of Windows will. On Windows 7 and now 8.1, its not allowed.īut you wouldnt know it unless you read the fine print.įor the purposes of this article, were just going to assume that you can actually buy and use a System Builder (or OEM) edition of Windows and use it on your own computer. Microsofts been all over the map when it comes to whether System Builder licenses can be used by normal computer enthusiasts building their own machines.
In other words, there are four different consumer versions of Windows to choose from.
