Using Windows XP from an Old computer

Question

I'm thinking of upgrading my aging Gateway with a Dell. I'm wondering if it possible to order my dell with XP Home, and then the computer arrives, install the copy of XP pro that is on my Gateway. I'm planning on tossing the Gateway, so there won't be an issue of one copy running on two machines. Is this possible?

zepart949 · Answer

@Mary G wrote:

No you will be in violation of the license. The operating system lives and dies with the original computer. It will not activate if you install it on the Dell. Order your new computer with Windows Media Center edition. It is Pro with a few disabled features.

What is disabled on it?

Kanuk001 · Answer

If Gateway works the same as other vendors, an OEM version of XP is installed on it. It is tied to the BIOS and will only work on the same (model) computer. In short, the answer is most likely not.

Denny Denham · Answer

@zepart949 wrote: What is disabled on it? The ability to join a domain. See this post.

Mary G · Answer

No you will be in violation of the license. The operating system lives and dies with the original computer. It will not activate if you install it on the Dell. Order your new computer with Windows Media Center edition. It is Pro with a few disabled features.

Denny Denham · Answer

zepart949, That's not a domain based network, so no inconvenience.

zepart949 · Answer

I have no idea if I need to join a domain. My network is two PC's mine and my girlfriends.

Windows General

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