Moving Windows XP OEM to a new hardware setup?

[Zim]

I recently bought an OEM (non BIOS locked) version of Windows XP Pro SP2 and installed it on my home built PC. Now I've ordered up a new motherboard, cpu, and video card and intend to install the new hardware, and then perform a Windows repair in order to update to the new hardware drivers. What concerns me is Windows XP activation. Can anyone confirm that I will be able to activate Windows (by phone?) after the hardware upgrade? Thanks!

 

[sykopath79]

You will most likely be able to activate over the Internet with no problem, but if you can't do it online then a phone call should be no problem either. I have done it several times when I've upgraded machines for other people and kept their OEM WinXP on the rebuilt system.

Not sure what licensing issues may technically arise, depending upon whom you ask; but getting it activated should be no big deal at all.

 

[cubby1223]

You'll have to call them up. Don't worry, it's quite painless.

 

[Zim]

Thanks, guys. As long as it works one way or another, I don't mind.

 

[FlyingPenguin]

If this is only the 2nd activation, you'll be able to do it via the Internet no problem. They usually allow you the first 3 or 4 before requiring you to call. If you have to call you just tell them you upgraded your mobo. No problem.

Don't admit to anything that violates the EULA or they can deny you an activation (they usually ask you to confirm that it's only installed on one computer for instance).