Once you purchase another license (Product Key), you may install
Windows XP on another computer using the same CD but using the
new Product Key. Using the same Product Key, to install Windows XP
on an another computer, will result in the inability to activate the
second installation and is also a violation of the End-User License
Agreement.
On the back of the Windows XP box, please read the statement:
"For installation and use on one computer"
(see License Agreement for license terms).
To access the License Agreement on your XP computer, go to:
Start > Run and type: WINVER , and hit enter.
Then click on "End-User License Agreement".
You can also open XP's "Help and Support" and type: EULA
and hit enter. Click on "Questions and answers about the EULA".
The End-User License Agreement states quite clearly:
"You may install, use, access, display and run one copy
of the Software on a single computer...."
You can install one (1) copy of Windows XP on one (1) computer.
Additional installations requires additional licenses (Product Keys)
for each installation on a different computer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Microsoft Product Activation
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;302878&Product=winxp
HOW TO: Change the Product Key at the Time of Activation
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;810892&Product=winxp
Additional Licenses for Windows XP Home Edition
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/home/howtobuy/addlic.asp
Additional Licenses for Windows XP Professional
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/howtobuy/addlic.asp
Before upgrading any existing Windows installation, it would be prudent to
run the Upgrade Advisor for Windows XP. This tool will report what hardware
or software may be incompatible with Windows XP. If you follow the Upgrade
Advisor's recommendations, you should not have any problem upgrading to
Windows XP.
If you fail to utilize the Upgrade Advisor, you may run into incompatibility issues.
Just inserting the Windows XP Upgrade CD in the CD Drive and selecting
"upgrade" is not going to give you the desired result. You must "prepare and
plan" your computer before beginning the upgrade process.
Windows XP Upgrade Advisor
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307726
It is imperative that you have the latest BIOS update installed. Visit the support
website of the manufacturer of your computer or motherboard for instructions
on updating your computer's BIOS.
Accessing Motherboard BIOS
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/bios_manufacturer.htm
How to Flash Your BIOS
http://www.techtv.com/screensavers/answerstips/story/0,24330,3336702,00.html
If you perform the upgrade, using the following procedure,
you should retain your programs and files. However, it is
always prudent to backup your critical files....just in case.
1. Purchase the conventional "retail upgrade version" of Windows XP.
2. Uninstall any third-party antivirus or firewall programs.
3. Disconnect all peripheral hardware devices, but not the monitor, keyboard or mouse.
4. While at your Windows desktop screen, insert the Windows XP Upgrade CD in the CD drive.
5. Select the default "Upgrade" option....do not select "New Installation".
6. Defrag your drive after upgrading.
7. Reinstall your antivirus program & turn-on the firewall.
8. Visit the Windows Update website and download the necessary updates.
--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User
Be Smart! Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/
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|i have bought microsoft xp and have recently just bought a
| new computer which does not have xp it has ME and have
| lots of music andfiles on the new computer i would like to
| install the same xp on the second computer but will i lose
| my info on the hard drives as i have two ie:
| MP3's/games/files
|
| reply please(urgent)
