OEM

• If you are in the market for a new computer and Windows XP, you can find a PC preloaded with Windows XP--called original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Most entry-level computers and beyond will come with the latest Windows OS, but some low-end PCs come with Windows XP.
  
  

Considerations

• Microsoft's end-of-sale date does not apply to retailers--online and brick and mortar stores. Online retailers can also sell Windows XP at a heavy discount over its suggested retail price, according to PC Magazine.
  
  

Warning

• You can also purchase Windows XP on secondhand markets, such as eBay. Leo Notenboom warns users they could be buying an illegal or broken copy of Windows XP. Unless the seller has explicit permission to sell an OEM copy of XP--the most common type on the secondhand market--it is in violation of software piracy rules.