Simple question regarding windows license

So i talked with the owner of a small computer shop in my home town. He is selling PCs (i did not ask about specs) for $79 with what he claims is a genuine XP installation.

Since I am in need of several windows licenses of different versions, I wonder how this guy is getting the software cheap enough to throw it in the junkiest rig imaginable and then make a profit charging $79. He also is selling Win7 on (presumably) better systems for $150.

Considering the prices I am finding online, it is not adding up for me.

Point being, I have several friends & family who need a reinstall and have no software. Am I missing some way of getting (legally) cheap licenses or licenses for multiple use (for technicians)?

Any info on this is greatly appreciated.

 

The old PCs with XP? They could be old ones he scrounged up and may actually have valid COAs. The Windows 7 PCs? Don't bet on it.

 

Thanks for clearing that up.


Talked to microsoft about system builder discounts. Not sure I need enough licenses to get a good discount.

anyways thanks guys.