XP Question

[Splitz300]

Alright, I'm C O N S I D E R I N G going to XP when it's out for like 6 months. But there is one thing that bothers me. I've got 2 computers in our house right now using home networking. Now, will I have to have 2 seperate copies of XP ($99 a pop) to use it? with ME I could use the same CD and stuff and just install it on both computers. Or would I need to copies of it?

And I still don't agree with having to call microsoft to upgrade your computer....stupid stuff.

Splitz

[Praetorian]

Yes you will need 2 different copies (its called product activation). This forces you to register your copy of WinXP with M$ to protect from software piracy. You would only need to contact M$ if you make major changes to hardware or I think to more than 4 components in one time period.

[Xaotic]

The latest, I had heard, was that adding hardware does not require reactivation. However, BIOS, processor or motherboard changes would require reactivation, as well as a high number of other hardware changes. If you are considering an upgrade, make sure that your other software is compatible or can be upgraded or patched to function under XP, as it's not completely software friendly.

[shahani]

If you get the Professional/Corporate edition, it doesn't need activation, which is a major advantage. Though I think the decision to install on 2 PCs with only one copy/licence is a personal decision - according to Microsoft you need to buy 2 copies to install on 2 PCs. and that goes for ME/9X/2000 or any other software. Matter of personal ethics, dude.

[Praetorian]

Since I'm not all up-to-date on XP, tell me why the Professional edition doesn't require activation.

[ooops]

Both the Professional and Home versions require activation ....... the corporate version doesn't because all us IT guys/gals would shoot ourselves after spending countless hours "teching" all the ACTIVATION support calls :) ....... does the OEM version require Activation ?????? ............ AZZO Computers is selling the OEM version for $162.00

[shahani]

I have the Professional Edition Build 2600 and it does NOT need activation. Must be a Corporate Edition, I guess.