Re: Another Stolen Laptop Question

On Thu, 6 Mar 2008 19:02:34 -0800 (PST), Recursive Error
<smartin108@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

My HP Laptop with preloaded XP Pro was stolen. I do have the HP
branded XP Pro install disk ("only for distribution with an HP PC")
that came with the laptop and the product key from the sticker on the
now stolen laptop. I got some insurance money and I am looking to buy
a replacement computer (probably a desktop model, also from HP) but
Vista is my only OS option. If possible, I would like to reformat the
new PC using my old XP Pro disk.

Most of the discussions surrounding this scenario seem to say I'm not
able to use my old disk to install XP Pro. A few opinions seem to
differ. I believe there are both licensing issues and technical
issues.


That's correct. There are both licensing and technical issues:

The licensing issue: an OEM license permanently ties that copy of
Windows to the first computer it's installed on. It can never legally
be moved to another computer, sold, or given away, except with that
computer.

The technical issue: most OEM copies that come pre-installed with a
brand-name computer are BIOS-locked to that motherboard and won't work
with another one unless it's exactly the same.



The licensing is what confuses me. I'm interested to know from this
group what my legal options are regarding the license, no matter how
ridiculous or impractical. I am willing to battle with the technical
stuff.

Can I simply reformat the new HD an install my old XP Pro?


No.


Can I deny the Vista EULA and do the same?


No.


Can I install my XP Pro in a dual OS environment?


No.


Is my XP CD nothing more than a coaster now?


Yes.


Any other options?


Use Vista on your new laptop. Although it's different from XP, and
will take some getting used to, it's worth the effort. As long as you
get a computer with good-enough hardware for Vista (in particular, be
sure you get at least 2GB of RAM) it works very well.


--
Ken Blake, Microsoft MVP - Windows Desktop Experience
Please Reply to the Newsgroup
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