In order to be sure that your institution's computers have a properly-licensed operating system (such as Windows XP or Windows Vista), it is important to understand the key differences between a "Full" operating system license and an "Upgrade" operating system license.
Full Operating System License
Upgrade Operating System License
May be used for a "naked" computer (a computer without a previously installed and licensed operating system)
May only be used for a computer that already has a full operating system license (See the product use rights for a list of qualifying operating systems)
Licenses the use of the specific version of the operating system purchased
Licenses the use of a newer version of the operating system than the previously-installed version
Does not include the right to downgrade to previous versions of the operating system*
Includes the right to downgrade to previous versions of the operating system*
NOT available through Academic Edition Full-Packaged Product (retail)
Available through Academic Edition Full-Packaged Product (retail)
*These rights vary depending on the operating system version and manner in which it was acquired. Consult your End User License Agreement (EULA) or Volume License Agreement for details.
There are two ways to acquire a full operating system license:
•
Acquire the Full-Packaged Product version from a retail store. (Academic Edition not available)
•
Acquire a new computer with a full Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) version of the operating system pre-installed by your OEM or System Builder. All new and replacement PCs should come with a bootable operating system pre-installed.
NOTE: The information on this page applies to customers in the United States and Canada. Customers in other locations should refer to their regional Microsoft Licensing Web site or contact their local Microsoft representative for more information.
