Upgrading to a localized version of Windows XP

[Guest]

If I have a computer with an OEM version of Windows XP in English, can I
upgrade to a localized (e.g., Italian) version of Windows XP by buying the
"upgrade" (rather than the more expensive "full") version of Windows XP in a
foreign country? In other words, will an "upgrade" version of Windows XP
purchased in Italy install itself over an English version of Windows XP, or
will the Italian "upgrade" version not accept the English OEM version as an
acceptable "prior" version allowing the upgrade to Windows XP in Italian?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Rich Barry]

Anthony, see if this will help
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/upgrading/advisor.mspx

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

One cannot install a different language version of Windows XP
over another language version. You'll need to purchase a "Full
Version", and not an "Upgrade Version", of Windows XP in the
language version you wish to install. A reformat of you drive
is required before installing the new language version.

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User
Microsoft Newsgroups

Be Smart! Protect Your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/protect/default.mspx

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

:

| If I have a computer with an OEM version of Windows XP in English, can I
| upgrade to a localized (e.g., Italian) version of Windows XP by buying the
| "upgrade" (rather than the more expensive "full") version of Windows XP in a
| foreign country? In other words, will an "upgrade" version of Windows XP
| purchased in Italy install itself over an English version of Windows XP, or
| will the Italian "upgrade" version not accept the English OEM version as an
| acceptable "prior" version allowing the upgrade to Windows XP in Italian?
|
| Thanks in advance.

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

No.. the full retail version is required for a complete language change..

 

[Alex Nichol]

If I have a computer with an OEM version of Windows XP in English, can I
upgrade to a localized (e.g., Italian) version of Windows XP by buying the
"upgrade" (rather than the more expensive "full") version of Windows XP in a
foreign country?

Sorry - no. You have to start over with a clean install of a full
version. The different language 'localisations' are not mutually
compatible