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License type guide

Retail License (FPP)

A retail license — Full Packaged Product in Microsoft terms — is a boxed/digital product you buy on its own, independent of any hardware. It can move between your own computers (one at a time) and includes Microsoft support.

Key points

Bought standalone — not tied to any hardware purchase
Transferable to a replacement PC (activated on one device at a time)
Includes Microsoft product support
Carries full downgrade/edition rights where the SKU allows

Pros & cons

Advantages

  • Moves with you — deactivate on the old PC and activate on the new one
  • Microsoft support included for the product
  • Clean resale/transfer rights for individuals
  • Most flexible channel for upgrades and rebuilds

Drawbacks

  • Higher price than OEM/ESD for the same software
  • Physical box versions are increasingly rare
  • Transfer requires reactivation steps on both machines

Transferability

Transferable between your own devices — one activated install at a time.

Best for

  • Enthusiasts who upgrade motherboards or PCs regularly
  • Anyone who wants Microsoft as the support path
  • Users who expect to carry a license to their next machine

Frequently asked questions

Can I transfer a retail license to another computer?+
Yes. A retail (FPP) license may be moved to a replacement device, provided it is only installed and activated on one computer at a time. Uninstall or deactivate on the old machine first, then activate on the new one.
What is the difference between retail and OEM?+
The two big differences are transfer and support. A retail license can move between your devices and is supported by Microsoft; an OEM license is locked to the first machine it activates on and is supported by the manufacturer. Retail costs more for those rights.
Does a retail license expire?+
No. Perpetual retail licenses (Windows, Office 2021/2024 perpetual SKUs) do not expire. What does end is the support/update window for the product version — for example Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025.
Can I resell a used retail license?+
In many jurisdictions you can transfer a retail license you no longer use, and the buyer activates it on their own hardware. Keep the proof of purchase; without it, neither you nor the buyer can demonstrate ownership if activation ever asks.

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