FAQs
What are the differences between ESD & FPP licenses?
There is no difference between the License Use Rights for the same product bought as a Full Packaged Product (FPP) or through Electronic Software Distribution (ESD). The only difference is in the way they are delivered: FPP uses a physical box versus a digital download through ESD.
Electronic Software Distribution enables an instant download of Office and Windows, delivering the product key directly to customers in a secure manner. The activation codes for products purchased through ESD are delivered and activated in real-time at the time of sale. The end user inputs these codes into their device to download the product securely.
What are the payment methods for purchasing ESD licenses?
Since products purchased using ESD are distributed through online channels, payment methods will likely be online. You should confirm the payment options offered by your reseller.
When I purchase an ESD license(s), how will I receive/install the product?
The ESD licenses will be sent directly to the e-mail address you registered after you completed your purchase. Once you receive the product key, you will go to https://setup.office.com/ to start the installation process. You will use your current Microsoft account, or create a new account, to start the download process. If you use a Microsoft service like Outlook.com, OneDrive, Xbox Live, or Skype, you already have a Microsoft account.
Are ESD licenses less secure than Fully Packaged Products (FPP)?
Full Packaged Product and software purchased through ESD have the same level of enhanced security.
How do I know that I'm buying genuine software?
We highly recommend buying through a trusted Microsoft reseller to help make sure the products you purchase are genuine. You can contact local Microsoft support to verify your products: https://support.microsoft.com/
Is it secure to buy through ESD?
Yes. When purchasing software through ESD, your product key is sent directly to your registered email address along with instructions to go to a secured site to start the guided installation process. We highly recommend buying licenses from a trusted Microsoft reseller to help make sure the products you purchase are genuine. You can contact local Microsoft support to verify your products: https://support.microsoft.com/
If I install a product purchased through ESD on a device, how do I prove my purchase?
Products purchased through ESD do not include hard copies of the product key or a box. You should keep digital invoices and receipts as proof of purchase.
If I purchase software via ESD, will I receive product updates?
The availability of automatic updates on products through ESD will depend on what you have purchased. For example, if you purchased a perpetual license of Office Home & Business 2019, you will only receive security updates. Perpetual licenses do not include product updates. If you are purchasing a Microsoft 365 sku, product and security updates are included with your subscription.
How do I know if my product key is unique and reliable?
The product key purchased through ESD will be sent digitally once the purchase is complete. Microsoft trusts its local distributors and resellers to only sell genuine product licenses. Contact Microsoft support to verify your products: https://support.microsoft.com/
Once I have my ESD product key for Office or Windows, is it transferable to another device?
Yes, product keys and licenses for Office and Windows purchased through ESD or FPP are transferable to another device.
Once I buy a license through ESD and activate it, can I return the product to the reseller?
Once a license purchased through ESD is activated, it can’t be returned. For licenses purchased but not activated (wrong product or quantity), please reach out to your Microsoft reseller for their return policy.