WIN XP -cost of the OS for pc?

[Amor]

I'm planning on building two new systems. One for my wife and one for myself. I want to have windows xp on both of them, but do not wish to go the long/circuitous route of installing Windows 98 and then installing windows xp.

If there is a way to install windows xp with just a windows xp disk, which windows xp should I get? Should I stick with 'at home', or go with a 'professional one?'

I could not find any 'at home' disks on the shelf at my local Fry's electronics. Then again, I did not ask for help there.

Also, and this is very important to my pocketbook, do I have to buy Windows xp for each computer or will I be able to buy it for one and use it on both systems?

 

[timswim78]

Stick with XP Home. It has all of the features that you should need in a home environment. You'll need a copy for each machine. You will not need to install Windows 98 before installing XP. Look for OEM versions on pricewatch or ebay if you are looking to save money.

 

[n0cmonkey]

Even if you get the "upgrade" version, you won't need to reinstall 98. You will need the disk (or a backup) though.

 

[MrChad]

You can buy the "upgrade" version of XP (at least one). You can install XP upgrade on a fresh machine without installing 98 first ... you will just be prompted at some point during the XP install to verify your eligibility by inserting your 98 CD.

 

[Amor]

Thank you for your replies thus far.

I was also wondering if I have two windows 98 disks right now, would I be able to essentially buy two windows xp 'upgrade' versions and place them on my new computer?

I only have the product key for one of the windows 98 disks.

Or has microsoft made it where you have to type in that product key to be able to use the upgrade? If not, then I see no reason why I could not just buy the two upgrade versions and go from there (even if I only had one disk).

Thanks again for your insight into this matter.

 

[n0cmonkey]

I don't remember needing the product key for Win98 the last time I did an upgrade.

 

[TD77077]

Try Eagle Computers (I think it is www.saveateagle.com). You can get the OEM Home XP version for $80 and a license for $60 - $140 for two computers. It's cheaper than the upgrade version. And Eagle has very good ratings at ResellerRatings.com.