Is Dell XP Pro Downgrade of Vista Business COA same for both?

[mshan]

I just got a Dell Vostro 220 for my dad.

It came installed with XP Pro (downgrade from Vista Business).

There is a Vista Business COA taped to top back of case, right behind Service Tag and Express Service code.

Is this also my product key for the currently installed XP Pro?

 

[mpilchfamily]

You need to contact Dell and ask them.

 

[bamacre]

It doesn't matter. You won't need a key when you install the OS anyway. As long as you use the Dell branded Windows install disks.

It's only a problem if you're trying to install on a different non-Dell machine, and you aren't supposed to be doing that anyway. Also, you'd have a problem trying to run a virtual install of one on top of the other, as it won't auto-activate because it's not reading the Dell bios. But I'm not sure they intend for you to be doing that either.

 

[mshan]

My main concern is Windows 7 upgrade when it is released (my Dell qualifies for free Windows 7 update).

XP Pro installed from Dell, but COA is Vista Business.

Dell included both XP Pro SP3 and Vista Business (32-bit) install disks.

 

[bamacre]

Originally posted by: mshan
My main concern is Windows 7 upgrade when it is released (my Dell qualifies for free Windows 7 update).

XP Pro installed from Dell, but COA is Vista Business.

Dell included both XP Pro SP3 and Vista Business (32-bit) install disks.

You're likely to receive a full Dell-branded Windows 7 disk, and it won't ask for a serial key either.

 

[mshan]

Thanks for the info!