I have an OEM version of XP home on my computer and I want to put a full version of XP professional on. What is troubling me is what about the other software that came on my Emachines recovery disk and the drivers for the hardware. How will I be able to install them of the disk without again putting XP home back on as they just run from loading.

if it is just a recovery disc you cannot install this software as the recovery disc most likely overwrites your c drive. but are you sure that you need xp pro, the only benefits would be dual processor support. also if you are in a business environment, you can access domain/active directory controllers. other than that there is no difference, not regarding performance or otherwise. Today's subliminal thought is: 'Calm down ... it's only ones and zeros.' icq 10183575

My computer will be replaced sometime and Dual core is what I will go for but does that mean again if the new computer has XP home OEM I cannot put XP pro or media on. Surely the upgrades etc cannot only be just for computers without OS on.

Just had a thought when you said recovery was you talking about the XP pro. because I will be buying a retail Full version.

A retail full version will upgrade XP Home to XP Pro, the drivers are the same so when you insert the XP Pro CD it will ask if you want to upgrade. Obviously you will need to go Windows Updates afterwards.

i said DUAL processer support (like 2 processors on 1 mainboard), not dual core ... different kettle of fish. and no i was talking about your xp home recoery disc, you probably cannot use this disc to re-install your old oem software as it will overwrite your c drive. unless you need to access domain/active directory controllers, don't waste your money for a retail xp pro. btw. the vista will be released shortly and given you 1 gb ram, you may as well consider waiting another 3 months. Today's subliminal thought is: 'Calm down ... it's only ones and zeros.' icq 10183575