Activating Windows on a virtual machine

[Guest]

I have recently bought a notebook, with original Windows XP Home installed (I
suppose it's OEM). I want to install a new instance of Windows XP inside a
virtual machine (VMWare), on the same computer. Can I do it? I am having
problems on activating Windows with the virtual machine, because the Product
Key is the same I've already used for the original installation of Windows.
Can anyone help me?

 

[Dave B.]

You need a separate license for the Windows install on the VM, just as you
would for an install on a second PC.

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

You cannot use the same Windows XP license. If you wish
to install Windows XP on a Virtual Machine, you'll need to
purchase a new Windows XP license. Virtual Machines are
treated just like conventional computers when it comes to
licensing agreements.

Example:

Microsoft Windows XP Home With SP2 - OEM
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16832116056


--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows Shell/User

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:

| I have recently bought a notebook, with original Windows XP Home installed (I
| suppose it's OEM). I want to install a new instance of Windows XP inside a
| virtual machine (VMWare), on the same computer. Can I do it? I am having
| problems on activating Windows with the virtual machine, because the Product
| Key is the same I've already used for the original installation of Windows.
| Can anyone help me?

 

[Dave B.]

Not to mention that the OEM license that came with the laptop is not
transferable to ANY PC (a VM is considered a separate PC), so the install of
it on a VM is against the EULA.

 

[Gene K]

Sorry, you will have to buy another license from Microsoft in order to
install on a virtual machine.
Gene K