Microsoft Software License Types
1. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) refers to the license that is installed on new devices by a manufacturer. With this license, the product key is not transferable, and you cannot use it to activate another installation unless you are re-activating a new installation on the same computer.
2. A Retail License refers to the license acquired when purchasing a copy of Windows tell from an online retailer such as Amazon or Microsoft, or from a local store. With this license, you are able to transfer the product key to another computer once your old device is deactivated.
3. A Volume License is designed for large business, education, and government scenarios. This license cannot be transferred when the system changes ownership, but you can use the Volume License multiple times on different computers.
Checking License Installed on Windows
Method 1:
1. Open a Microsoft desktop software like Microsoft Word and go to File, then Account.
2. The license type will be listed in the About section.
Method 2 (more advanced):
1. Open the Start window
2. Search for Command Prompt and select the Run as administrator option
3. Type the following command to determine the license type and press Enter: slmgr /dli
4. Confirm the license type with the information available in the Windows Script Host dialog
Checking License Installed on Mac
1. Open a Microsoft desktop app (such as PowerPoint), select the name of the app in the menu, and then About (app).
2. The license type will be listed below the Product ID.