How can I transfer my XP pro from desktop to laptop?

[Guest]

Here is my problem.
Through school, I get to use XP pro, through msdn. I installed the CD onto
my desktop, sort of as a test -- because I didn't want to wipe out my
laptop's harddrive in case it didn't activate properly.

The reason I tested it, is because last term, I had installed the software
and couldn't activate it, because I waited too long, and the key was
"expired". This time it worked just fine -- but on the wrong computer! I
should have known better, but I didn't realize I could only install it on one
computer- PERIOD.

Now, is there any way to get it off of my desktop, and onto my laptop
instead? It won't let me activate it. Can I just deactivate this one?

 

[Florian Frommherz]

Howdie!

Here is my problem.
Through school, I get to use XP pro, through msdn. I installed the CD onto
my desktop, sort of as a test -- because I didn't want to wipe out my
laptop's harddrive in case it didn't activate properly.

The reason I tested it, is because last term, I had installed the software
and couldn't activate it, because I waited too long, and the key was
"expired". This time it worked just fine -- but on the wrong computer! I
should have known better, but I didn't realize I could only install it on one
computer- PERIOD.

Now, is there any way to get it off of my desktop, and onto my laptop
instead? It won't let me activate it. Can I just deactivate this one?

You need to uninstall it at the desktop machine and install it on the
laptop. You can then activate Windows over the phone (tell the support
technician about your situation - those people will understand your
issue and tell you a key which will activate the machine).

cheers,

Florian