Windows 2000

[halfpower]

My computer is currently running Win2000. I downloaded the program from my school's network server. I am currently assembling a new computer and am wondering if I can legally install this copy of Win2000 on this computer too, if I am the only person using these two machines.

If I remember correctly the program is a .EXE file and it was originally installed over Win98. Does anyone know if I can just boot up to a CD containing the .EXE file? I suppose I could install 98 and then install Win2000 on top of it. Another alternative would be to get a copy of WinXP. This is not very attractive as I have not found any compelling reasons to justify the $150 price tag.

 

[n0cmonkey]

One computer per license.

 

[christopherzombie]

Install WIN98 on the 2nd computer and buy an upgrade version of XP home for $89 off newegg. Or just buy an OEM version for $89 and skip the 98 install.

 

[bendixG15]

Its your hardware and your software and your money

Do what works for you..............

 

[Rottie]

Originally posted by: bendixG15
Its your hardware and your software and your money

Do what works for you..............

no Bill Gates needs some money cuz he's selling it and he doesn't have hardware.

 

[halfpower]

Originally posted by: christopherzombie
Install WIN98 on the 2nd computer and buy an upgrade version of XP home for $89 off newegg. Or just buy an OEM version for $89 and skip the 98 install.

Will the OEM version install itself as well as the retail version? In other words, are there any drawbacks to getting the OEM version?

 

[jackschmittusa]

You will have no problems with the OEM version. It is identical in function to the retail version.

 

[Zolty]

Originally posted by: jackschmittusa
You will have no problems with the OEM version. It is identical in function to the retail version.

A lot of OEM installations, may have more bloatware than thier retail counterparts.

If you are installing an OEM version of the OS then you have to include some of the hardware from the original system (a floppy cable works). This is done for legal reasons, also legally its 1 license per pc. Realistically M$ isnt going to sue you or ever find out about you installing the OS on 2 computers, but again there is the legality of it.


EDITED AFTER READING A FEW MORE POSTS
the OEM copy purchased should be identical to the retail version

 

[timswim78]

MS will no longer let you activate an OEM copy if it is not on the original computer. There are threads about their new policy on this board. So, if you have a Dell< Compaq, or etc. CD, you will not be able to activate it.

 

[Fern]

Originally posted by: timswim78
MS will no longer let you activate an OEM copy if it is not on the original computer. There are threads about their new policy on this board. So, if you have a Dell< Compaq, or etc. CD, you will not be able to activate it.

I don't believe you have to activate win2k. Thats an winXP issue.

Fern

 

[MDE]

Originally posted by: Fern

Originally posted by: timswim78
MS will no longer let you activate an OEM copy if it is not on the original computer. There are threads about their new policy on this board. So, if you have a Dell< Compaq, or etc. CD, you will not be able to activate it.

I don't believe you have to activate win2k. Thats an winXP issue.

Fern

Even still, you can get "unbranded" OEM copies from Newegg and you can activate them just fine. The problem comes when you try using a Windows disc from a prebuilt major name PC on a home build.