XP Pro on multiple computers

[TKBM]

Can I install Windows Xp Pro on multiple computers? I was planning on getting either the Full version of Windows XP Pro, or the OEM Full version of it. I was reading something about the OEM software, and It stated that it could only be installed once.

Is this true, and for that matter, is it also true with the Full retail version, rather than the OEM?

Thanks in advance for any help.
~Bill

 

[smah]

Every license of every version of Windows only allows installation on one computer. Some licenses can be moved to a new computer, some can not. For a more thorough explanation, see: faq779-4004 Should you purchase an OEM license version of XP?

Steve

 

[markdmac]

For the record, Corporate Licensing will alolow the same media and install key to be used, but it is important to note that the proper CALs need to be purchased along with it.

Bill, your question reads this way to most of us:

Which version of Windows will let me pirate it

Needless to say I hope that is not your intention.

I hope you find this post helpful.

Regards,

Mark

 

[TKBM]

Not at all. I just didn't know if it was possible. Because if down the line I purchase a new computer, I wanted to know if I would be able to get windows on there without having to pay for it again. But youve answered my question.

But I now have a different question.

I'm sorry to say, that yes, I have had a pirated version of windows. But Now I've decided its best just to buy it.

Then I was thinking about gettint the OEM. After reading the FAQ about OEM, I have just 2 questions before I decide.

When it states, "You need a CLEAN harddrive". Does that mean, Clean hard drive, or CLEAN partition?... I have my windows on a separate partition. So it would be nice.

2nd. Can I use the CD key from the OEM on an already installed Full Version of windows? It would be great if I didnt have to reinstal, but if I have to, meh.

Thanks for all of your help so far,
Peace,
~Bill

 

[markdmac]

If your intention is to be able to use the purchased licens over when you upgrade a PC you will not want to buy an OEM version.

However, with the release of Vista coming soon you may wish to go that route just to save money for now and get the newer OS later on down the road.

A retail license will allow you to uninstall it from one system and reinstall on another. You will need to contact Microsoft by phone when you try to reactivate the software on the new PC.

I hope you find this post helpful.

Regards,

Mark

 

[Nelviticus]

When it says that you need a clean hard drive, it just means that you can't use an OEM version to upgrade from an older version - it has to be a fresh install. It will still let you format the drive or partition as part of the process though. Installing it to a new partition will be fine.

You won't be able to use the CD key from an OEM version to licence a 'full version' installation.

Regards

Nelviticus

 

[alidabiri]

you can get an O.E.M. cd with certificate of authenticity and cd key from several sources. theses cd's are sold by microsoft to entities who assemble their own computers, like you and I may have. it does not have fancy books or manuals, and no tech support is provided. it needs activation.
there are also o.e.m. volume licensing cd, same as above. you can install these cd's on many machines. however, when you attempt downloading updates, etc., only the first one is recognized by MS as the legitimate one, and the rest are considered pirated.
i have built my own pc. i bought all the components and o.e.m. xp-pro from local computer store.
o.e.m. xp sells for about $80.00
you can get them from these places:

http://www.softwareoutlet.com

http://www.edirectsoftware.com

and many other places.