Windows XP registration

[Mango1970]

Hi all.
I just bought another copy of WInxp Pro for my second comp. I just wanted to ask something. IF I install it as I will soon, but I upgrade often... like I have a new CPU and mobo coming soon.... what happens to my registration? i am still not sure. Does it bind to my CPU or something and then if I upgrade to a new CPU and mobo I am screwed and have to buy yet another copy? My other comp is from work and it has its own copy of xp.. i never had to do anything with that laptop and we dont upgrade them. I am totally lost and worried I am going to have to buy another copy in a few weeks. What or how does the microsoft registration or actication work?

 

[bwatson283]

I am curious about the same thing......Lets see what the experts say

 

[postmortemIA]

If it is full version, you can use it on any single computer. if it is OEM, then only on original computer.

 

[John]

Originally posted by: postmortemIA
If it is full version, you can use it on any single computer. if it is OEM, then only on original computer.

OEM's are also full versions. Retail versions of the OS allow you to transfer from one pc to another; OEM does not. This is one reason why retail OS'es cost more, plus you can call MS for support. Both versions may only be installed on one system at a time.

 

[cubby1223]

What I would do, you can install XP, but do not activate it. You have a 30-day grace period. You cannot apply updates to Windows until it's activated, so just be very careful when on the internet. Then when your new motherboard & cpu arrives, activate Windows when you have it set up on that hardware.

 

[John]

Originally posted by: cubby1223
You cannot apply updates to Windows until it's activated

You can apply updates by using the Autopatcher without activating the OS.

http://www.neowin.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=486480

 

[Mango1970]

First of all THANK YOU for explaining the difference between OEM and full retail. All this time I have always thought it was pretty much the same, in other words like saying you buy a DVDR drive OEM it just comes without the package but everything is the same. Obviously with software that is not the case. The option to be able to install on any PC I own (as long as not on all of them at the same time) and be able to upgrade hardware at will was what I wanted. Guess I should have asked before, read more and bought the Retail package of XP LOL>
John, the link to the Autopatcher is a freaking GODSEND. Thank you!!!! It's exactly what I need. I will obviously register my copy OEM one soon but I will give this a try until I get everything built finally.

ANyhow I guess you get what you pay for... $137 for OEM vs what $280 for retail LOL.

Thanks all.. as usual you are all a massive help!