OEM Activation

[Seekermeister]

I'm curious if the activation on an OEM version of Windows is based simply on the hardware installed, or does it matter where the OS is installed? I'm going to do a reinstallation of the OS, and may do some experimenting as to exactly where I want it. But, I do not want to have to call MS to beg for their permission.

 

[RebateMonger]

You can do a "practice" installation on anything you want, as long as you don't Activate XP. Once you activate it, Microsoft could insist that its OEM EULA be enforced, which says that you can't move the XP to a different motherboard.

 

[MagnusTheBrewer]

Originally posted by: RebateMonger
You can do a "practice" installation on anything you want, as long as you don't Activate XP. Once you activate it, Microsoft could insist that its OEM EULA be enforced, which says that you can't move the XP to a different motherboard.

Correct. In practice though, MS has been very helpful in reactivating due to replacement and or upgrade and has never turned me down.

 

[bendixG15]

I have not had any problem activating OEM XP ... done so several times with diferent hardware.

 

[n0cmonkey]

You have 30(?) days before you have to activate. Use them.

 

[Slowlearner]

OP there is no need to be apprehensive, if you have changed major hardware, such as the motherboard, strictly seeking you have buy anew, but the great ones at Redmond have been very forgiving of late over the phone.