Access Code for Microsoft Office??

[holister16]

I just purchased a new laptop since my last one was way past outdated. I bought the latest version of Microsoft Office, but due to Microsoft's security I cannot re-enter the same access code for the software. Is there any way to get around this? I really don't want to spend another $120 for Microsoft Office that I just bought 2 years ago.

 

[JPaules]

I assume you have an OEM version on the old laptop? If so, you now understand why buying OEM software is penny wise, pound foolish.

No way around it.

--
JP

 

[kjv1611]

holister16,

Here is what JPaules is referring to. Generally speaking, if you think you might at all use the same software on a different computer (such as when one dies or you replace it for whatever reason), then you have to get retail. If you get OEM software, then yes, yer up the creek!

OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer.

OEM versions of software are supposed to accompany specific hardware they are tied to. Therefore, if you build a new computer, or buy a new desktop/laptop, and you buy OEM in order to get around the larger fees with retail, you had better make sure that you intend on ONLY using that software with that machine.

OEM versions of Windows and Office is what you get when you buy direct from HP, DELL, Acer/Gateway, etc.

--

"If to err is human, then I must be some kind of human!" -Me

 

[holister16]

Thanks for the clarification kjv1611!

 

[JPaules]

Sorry I wasn't as explicit. kjv - thanks for filling in the details.

--
JP

 

[kjv1611]

NP. I think it's easy for us to assume that everyone knows the background in such issues. I get reminded very regularly of how few people really know such things. Moreso in "real life" than on the tech forums.

--

"If to err is human, then I must be some kind of human!" -Me

 

[JimmiGee]

Purchase a subscription to TechNet from Microsoft and you can run all of their software for 3 hundred something bucks a year. This includes Vista Ultimate 32 and/or 64 bit, Office Publisher, even MSDOS if you have a use for it. ;o)

 

[strongm]

Technet software licences are for evaluation purposes only. You are specifically prohibited from using them in a live production environment.

 

[JPaules]

$349US a year. It's a great deal however TechNet is meant for testing purposes not for a production machine.

--
JP

 

[JJSRich]

Start writing software as a hobbyist, then it will be testing purposes.

IANAL so.... don't take my advice.