[Cuckoo]

My Dell computer is scapped but can I now buy new machine and load the original Windows XP Pro onto it, the CD has OEM cde. I do not want another Dell necessarily, can I reactivate the CD key and save myself buying pre-loaded software?

[SocialWarfare]

Nope, it will only be a legal copy on the machine it was originally on

[Hybr!d]

Dell discs are only valid on Dell machines.

[hAvAAck]

If you find a place that will help you trade up from xp pro to vista business it will work though, I know from experience

[Hybr!d]

To be fair if you rip the licence off the Dell case and throw out the old PC you are allowed to pass the licence on, i think.

This is because the licence is not being used on two PCs, it is being transferred.

But, legally that licence can only be used on another Dell machine, I am pretty sure it won't activate on another brand.

[hAvAAck]

Originally Posted by Dave Hybrid

To be fair if you rip the licence off the Dell case and throw out the old PC you are allowed to pass the licence on, i think.

This is because the licence is not being used on two PCs, it is being transferred.

But, legally that licence can only be used on another Dell machine, I am pretty sure it won't activate on another brand.

I think it will activate on any OEM version of XP pro, but I can't be certain. I am sure that it's not legal to use it on a non-dell though

[mcbee]

It can work. When the only XP home disc I had was a Dell one I loaded it onto a new build intending to use a new key at activation. I was surprised when activation was allowed. I have since sold the computer but with it's own copy of XP pro on it. However just because it activates, doesn't mean it's legal.

[Cuckoo]

Just to say that I bought emachine and loaded the XP pro on it and it works a treat.