When obtaining a OEM software you still have a valid copy of the software that you purchased and if you ever need to reactivate the software you simply need to phone activate if the standard activation doesn't work for you, it is not true that you cannot move this to new computers or if you have hardware failure you cannot call Microsoft,adobe,etc,,,. All you have to do is tell them and they will assist you as long as you have a product key.  I can tell you from personal experience that this has happened on a laptop and I read them the OEM COA key and they assisted me without a problem. However buyers, if you are buying an OEM software from ebay you will receive and OEM NONSLP key which is what you want if you are getting OEM software. Please read below for definition of OEM, If this guide helped you please say so.


Definition of OEM:

The term, OEM (original equipment manufacturer) refers to companies that make products for others to repackage and sell. Resellers buy OEM products in bulk, minus the costly retail packaging that comes with individually sold units. The product itself is essentially the same as its more expensive, retail-packaged sibling. OEM products are used in many industries, but are perhaps most prevalent in electronics.

Generally, dealers of OEM products add something of value before reselling the merchandise. An OEM vendor that does this is known as a "value added reseller" (VAR). A VAR might build components, sub-systems, or systems from quality OEM parts. OEM goods allow VARs a wide range of creative marketing choices, which permits smaller dealers to be competitive in the marketplace.

OEM software will have different product numbers than retail packages, and support may be provided by the VAR, rather than the maker of the software. Functionally, OEM and retail versions of software should be essentially the same.



Two kinds of OEM Product Keys:

OEM SLP Keys:
OEM SLP (System-Locked Pre-installation) keys are only issued to the big manufacturers such as Dell, Asus, Sony, etc.

OEM NONSLP Keys:
Similar to Retail, but distributed and supported by an OEM. Needs activation by phone or online and they are not brand specific. .

OEM COA Keys:
  OEM COA keys (Certificate of Authentication) are regular OEM keys that require activation, either by phone or online and they are not brand specific.
(you will find the sticker with the key underneath you Laptop or on the side of you PC)

These keys will work in general same as Retail or Upgrade keys and can be used only once. which is what you want if you are getting OEM software