Where can I still buy a retail version of windows xp?

I researched a little and I think Microsoft discontinued it? Any ideas? Thanks.

 

Yes, it is discontinued, but you can find retail versions on eBay: XP retail items - Get great deals on Windows items on eBay.com!

Or you can get OEM for $45: XP oem items - Get great deals on Windows items on eBay.com!

Or on NBR: http://forum.notebookreview.com/com...new-windows-xp-sp2-oem-dvds-product-keys.html

 

be careful you're getting a legit license with that XP.

 

Mine are definitely legit - my sale at that NBR link.

 

Yeah, I guess you will just have to look around, I got mine off eBay (Dell OEM ones...) Have a look around here also, like htwingnut's thread.

 

But do remember branded OEM licences are valid only when used in that same machine they are sold with.

Technically they will work of course but that is against the license agreement (I will not say illegal, since I don't belive it's defined in law anywhere in the world...).

 

I wouldn't worry about that too much. When XP was released the EULA was a lot different than what it pertains to Vista and 7.

I purchased XP Pro OEM back in 2001 and I had it transferred over too so many different machines (via desktop upgrades) I can't even count the times. All it takes is a phone call to MS and they'll switch it over for you.

 

Exactly. I always bought OEM keys for my builds. I switched one between three significant changes to my desktop with no issue. Especially now that MS doesn't sell the darn thing, I'm sure they won't care. I just call and tell them I updated my machine and they give me the new code. As a matter of fact I think now if you call, the first time they just give you the code. Any time after that you have to talk to someone.

 

I didn't say it wouldn't work... Sure it will work, otherwise installing OEM stuff would be major pain in the rear.

License-wise the oem is not transferrable. That's why retail license should be used instead when possible, just like plattnum here is trying to do. Unlimited transfers to new machines, within the license.

 

Hence the reason for a higher price tag. Retail UPGRADE versions are selling for $120+ on ebay. Full retail are $150+. You can buy three or four OEM licenses for the price of a full retail, plus 99% chance you'll have no issue transferring the OEM to another machine anyhow. Unless you plan on replacing your machine every year, and with XP no less, save yourself some money.

 

You can subscribe to Technet ($200) and get 10 XP Pro + 10 XP Home + 10 Win 7 ultimate + 10 Win 7 Pro +.....lisences

(You cannot resell these lisences however; and they are meant for your personal use)