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    Do I really have to use the xp home OEM version?

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by NumLock, Jun 5, 2006.

  1. NumLock

    NumLock Notebook Evangelist

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    ... to reinstall windows on a new laptop or can I use a retail version? Because I'm finding it hard to find one (or download one from a torrent). I'll still use the same product key that is in my windows right now. :confused:

    btw no disc ever came with the new laptop and I don't want to ask my laptop distributor for one. :mad:

    regards :)
     
    NumLock, Jun 5, 2006
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  2. nickster87

    nickster87 Notebook Consultant

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    You can reinstall any version of windows you want to, and I would suggest using a legal copy in spite of MS's current attack on piracy. It just makes things easier in my opinion. :)
     
    nickster87, Jun 5, 2006
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  3. NumLock

    NumLock Notebook Evangelist

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    yea but I don't have a legal copy.

    Quite vague..... its either windows xp home edition retailinstaller or windows xp home edition oem installer

    I've read somewhere that since it came with the laptop its OEM (definately) so I'd need to use an OEM installer also to reinstall it.... but no one tried and confirmed it yet.

    thanks!
     
    NumLock, Jun 5, 2006
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  4. qwester

    qwester Notebook Virtuoso

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    your key is most likely an oem key and will not work with a retail version.

    It definately won't work with a corp. edition (which is what most illegals are, since it avoids the activation process). By the way please don't discuss illegal software on the forums.
     
    qwester, Jun 5, 2006
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  5. prasys

    prasys Notebook Geek

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    Well , let me explain a little bit on the versions of Windows XP that are out there :-

    The OEM Edition - Its mainly for OEM Vendors that are out there. For example , Dell , COMPAQ/HP , Gateway , Acer , etc...I dont know how OEM Copies of Windows XP landed up in Retail Stores...When you take a look at its Product ID , you will notice it states OEM in the middle of the product ID .

    The Retail Edition - The name says it all..Its a retail version , meant for End Users. You can pick them up a the stores. Of course if you're a 'DIY-Dude' , then you would go to a store and pick up a copy of Windows XP. Now , thats a Retail Version of Windows XP [Sometimes , you would see an OEM Version of Windows XP as well]

    The Corporation Edition of Windows XP - Its actually Windows XP Professional without the activation thingy. Its mainly used in goverment sectors or in large Corporation. Its mainly to save Administrators time , so that they dont have to activate their copy of windows [Imagine...10,000 computers and activating them one by one].
     
    prasys, Jun 6, 2006
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  6. Sykotic

    Sykotic Notebook Evangelist

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    If you purchased an OEM computer it should come with a restore disk creator program. Use this program to create your recovery disks. This will give you your XP home. Unless you specify a OS cd, some OEM do not include one.
     
    Sykotic, Jun 6, 2006
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  7. Amber

    Amber Notebook Prophet NBR Reviewer

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    call your manufacturer and ask for the OEM disc. Most (i say most, not all) will supply you with a disc.

    If you buy a retail disc, you'll get a separate key with that.
     
    Amber, Jun 6, 2006
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