OEM Windows XP

[JULES_145]

I have a laptop with OEM XP windows installed. Due to some problem (Virus) the OS did not work properly anymore and I decided to reformat the entire hard disk and downloaded Windows XP retail version.
Under the above condition, I am thinking using the product key available at the back of the laptop for activation. Will I have problem with activation?

 

[hang-the-9]

Yes you will have issues, OEM license key won't work with a retail copy.

 

[JULES_145]

Will the OEM product key that I have work with any OEM Windowx XP Home Edition if I manage to downloaded from internet? and by the way, do you happen to know or have a LINK to download OEM Windows XP Home Edition? Thanks..

 

[hang-the-9]

There are several OEM versions, I am pretty sure that you need to match the key to the version exactly. So OEM Pro key should not work with an OEM Home. You can always try it, I have not installed XP in a while, maybe my memory is off on what keys will work with what. You can also check Microsoft documentation on licensing.

I don't know of any download locations for XP, or 7 for that matter. Even though just obtaining the disk is not an issue, the part that is important is the license key, not the disk. There are plenty of places you can find that you can download it from, issue is that many are filled with viruses. Check with a local PC shop. Also keep in mind that XP and the older browsers it runs are also no longer being patched for bugs or security issues.

 

[JULES_145]

Yes you will have issues, OEM license key won't work with a retail copy.

 

[JULES_145]

Thank you for the info. I have managed downloaded an OEM ULPC Windows XP Home Edition (Unmodified and no product key supplied). I am pretty sure, this one will work with my original product key. I will post the result in a week time after installed it during my next break.