Windows XP OEM question

[Rainsford]

Ok, I think I'm going to get the OEM version of Windows XP from Newegg. My only question is, is there anything different about the software itself? Can I reactivate it on new computers when I upgrade just like the "regular" Windows XP pro version? Are there any reactivation restrictions at all? Or any differences that I would care about (ie, not manuals and crap like that)? Thanks.

 

[cleverhandle]

Apart from lacking the half-a$$ manual, OEM is identical to retail. I believe that, technically, an OEM copy is supposed to stay with the original puter, but if so, this is never enforced.

Effectively identical. Just cheaper.

 

[mgpaulus]

I had originally installed the "leaked" corporate version of XP. Later, I decided to get legal, so I bought an OEM version of XP from directron. My original intent was merely to update the CD Key on my corporate version. However, the CD Key enabler didn't like the OEM versions Key. I thought I had a bad key. Wasn't a bad key. I actually had to boot the OEM CD, select reinstall, then repair. This asked me for my CD Key and then updated a bunch of files, and I then had to reinstall all my hotfixes.

So, if you are planning on legalizing a leaked corporate version, be aware it's not quite as simple as updating the CD Key.

 

[Rainsford]

I figured as much, I was going to reinstall probably anyways. But I guess repair would work. I'm just concerned about moving it over to a new system when I get one. I'd still only have it on one system, but I'm wondering if moving it is an issue with the OEM copy.

 

[cleverhandle]

I'd still only have it on one system, but I'm wondering if moving it is an issue with the OEM copy.

No more or less of an issue than with the retail copy - which means you'll need to call MS to get a new activation code.