I just put a new computer together. I was going to switch xp pro from the old to the new, but changed my mind at the last minute, so I ordered an oem disk. The provider says it's a full version only, stamped with the Dell logo. The company is EdirectSoftware. So here's the deal. I've got to wait four or five days for this disk, it's friday afternoon, and I've got the best computer I've ever owned laying idle at my feet. I don't keep up with what Microsoft is scheming on a regular basis about product activation. So what I want is reasurance that if I install with my existing dell xp pro sp2 disk, I will be able to activate the new one without glitches. Can someone reassure or educate me before I waste a lot of time having fun? Mark

Is the existing disk an OEM one? Are you intending activating it on new machine with old key? If its OEM, you won't be able to activate on different hardware. If its retail, you would be able to if you remove it from existing machine. You could install old one, not activate it, then do a repair reinstall with new one (with new key) when it arrives before activating (I'm not sure if http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb%3ben-us%3bQ328874 works for non-corporate versions - to change the key).

The usual saying around here, I have seen, is One XP to one computer. We do not want to deprive Bill Gates of $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

The old one is Oem, but I'm using it for installation only, the cabs. The new one is surplus, never-been-used full installation oem with a new key guaranteed. I want to activate with the new key and not reinstall if possible. I know the oem's put the key in the registry during install, but activation gives you a shot at entering in a new key. I just want to know if that really works. If I get carried away installing a lot of stuff to try, it would be a drag to start all over. But I've had worse. Mark

If you have to change it and the new one is valid go here. http://labmice.techtarget.com/windowsxp/articles/changeID.htm http://computervitals.com/

I think OEM's are bonded to the original CPU and you can't even call Microsoft to report it's on a different machine. Once that CD is sold, it is SOLD! Proceed with caution. You can avoid many of these Windows problems with Linux. Linspire eases the transition for new users

No one but Dell should be selling Windows media branded by Dell. I would order my product elsewhere. Jimi_l