Do I need to get a new OS with a new system?

Inazuma · 26 Apr 2007 at 07:33

Hey all
I currently have an XP OEM installed, so only 1 install is possible. But I'm still wondering if it's at all possible to keep the OS usable if I switched motherboards and CPU? I hear there's a workaround for it.

If not then is it possible to partition my hard drive and use the new partition for the new OS install?

MeatLoaf · 26 Apr 2007 at 07:57

If you have OEM then i think you have to buy a new copy if you change motherboards.

Your existing copy would install but im not sure if microsoft would activate it

t31os · 26 Apr 2007 at 12:46

Do you need to..... No, should you..... Yes.

mdjmcnally · 26 Apr 2007 at 13:24

I've taken 1 copy of XP OEM across 3 PC's, as I have upgraded my system. With reinstalls of XP I installed 10 times and had to phone Microsoft to activate. Explained the situation and had no problems with getting a code from them.

However I think the legal answer is yes, just that it isn't worth the hassle to Microsoft to force on people who build there own PC's.

Inazuma · 26 Apr 2007 at 13:30

How many times can Vista RETAIL be transferred to a new computer?

jim5000 · 26 Apr 2007 at 15:57

As many times as you like, so long as it is only on 1 computer at a time.