You can get software already loaded on a new PC that has been built by an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). This type of purchase can be the cheapest option for your business, but the OEM license has some restrictions. For example, preinstalled software does not include free technical support from Microsoft and although support may be available through the OEM it could be at a cost. And you cannot remove the software from one PC and put it onto another, as you can with a Full Packaged Product from a retailer.

If you want to buy a new software upgrade, you can choose according to your business needs. You can either buy a new PC with the new program, or you can buy the upgrade from a retailer.

OEM Office and OEM Server licenses can only be purchased with a fully-assembled computer system.

• Dell
• Gateway
• Hewlett Packard
• Lenovo
• Sony
• Toshiba

If you need as few as five software licenses, you can receive a volume discount. As with other software purchases, you receive a license to use the program but don't actually own it. In addition, there are a number of different programs within volume licensing to offer flexibility to deal with different needs.

• Find a Program

Review this chart for side-by-side overview comparisons of the software-purchasing options available to small businesses.

• See the chart