The answer to your question is MAYBE.  To meet Microsoft's criteria for the
sale, the CD and Certificate of Authenticity must be sold together.  Also
OEM versions must be sold with qualifying hardware (one or more of
motherboard, CPU, hard drive, etc.).  The package must be sealed and the CD
have the appropriate holographic logo on it.  Check with the MS website for
their suggestions on piracy issues.

I would check the seller's feedback and read the comments.  If someone has a
relatively low rating or an unsatisfactory amount of negative comments, I'll
pass regardless of how good the deal may be.  Chances are that you've found
an honest seller if they have 100+ with less than 2% negative feedback.

YMMV
Ron Jobe

----- Original Message -----
From: "Betti Ann & Preston Smith" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tuesday, October 21, 2003 11:42 AM
Subject: [PCSOFT] Buying software on EBay


> I have noted that Windows XP home edition in sealed packages is available
> on ebay.
>
> Does anyone have any experience with buying these items?  Is this the real
> mccoy or is it pirated?
>
> Preston

             Do you want to signoff PCSOFT or just change to
                    Digest mode - visit our web site:
                   http://freepctech.com/pcsoft.shtml