Re: [OT] A Warning to WinXP Users Who Re-install a Lot.

Tech-Archive recommends: Speed Up your PC by fixing your registry

Jesse wrote:
What about using an OEM key to install a retail copy?


Wouldn't work. Product Keys are bound to the specific type and language of CD and/or license (OEM, Volume, retail, full, or Upgrade) with which they are purchased. For example, a WinXP Home OEM Product Key won't work for any retail version of WinXP Home, or for any version of WinXP Pro, and vice versa. An upgrade's Product Key cannot be used with a full version CD, and vice versa. An OEM Product Key will not work to install a retail product. An Italian Product Key will not work with an English CD. Bottom line: Product Keys and CD types cannot be mixed & matched.


I need to reinstall Win XP on my computer. But the OEM install media is ancient -- pre-SP1.


It'd be quite easy to create an installation CD with the latest service pack (SP2) slipstreamed into the installation files:

How to integrate software updates into your Windows installation source files
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;828930

SlipStreaming WinXP
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/slipstream.htm


I've got a brand-new retail CD with SP2 here; can I use that CD with my OEM serial number to reinstall?


No.

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