License types

ESD, OEM and Volume MAK, explained

Three words get used almost interchangeably in this market, and the difference between them matters for what you can do with the license. Every listing on this site states which one you are buying.

ESD
What we sell
Electronic Software Delivery
The license reaches you electronically, as a product key and a download link in an email sent to the address you use at checkout.
Good for: Anyone installing on one PC who does not need a disc.
The catch: ESD describes how the license reaches you, not what rights it carries. Check the listing for the license type and how many PCs it covers, here and anywhere else you buy.
OEM
Original Equipment Manufacturer
The license type PC manufacturers install at the factory. Considerably cheaper, because it is sold with a machine rather than to a person. The software itself is identical.
Good for: A computer that will never be rebuilt or upgraded.
The catch: An OEM license is tied to the computer it was sold with, and Microsoft does not provide end-user support for it. If you expect to upgrade, ask the seller what happens to the license before you pay.
Volume MAK
Multiple Activation Key
One key that activates a set number of machines under a volume licensing agreement. Designed for organizations deploying many identical installations.
Good for: Organizations rolling out many identical machines.
The catch: A MAK key has a finite activation count set by its volume licensing agreement, so ask any seller what applies to the key you are buying.

Side by side

Side by side	ESD	OEM	Volume MAK
How it arrives	Key and download link by email	Pre-installed, or a key sold with a PC	One key for many machines
Made for	One PC, home or work	The PC it was sold with	Organizations
Watch out for	The rights, which the listing states	Upgrading or replacing the computer	A finite activation count

Which one should you buy?

The computer may be rebuilt, upgraded or replaced

A license is used on one PC at a time. If you replace or rebuild your computer, release the key on the old one and activate it on the new one. If activation is rejected after several changes, write to us with your order number.

The machine will live and die exactly as it is

An OEM license bought elsewhere can cost less, and you give up nothing you were going to use.

You are buying for an organization

Ask us whether volume licensing would cost less for your headcount.

Ask us first