I heard that Microsoft keeps track of which computers OEM has been installed on by the motherboard firmware. I already install XP on one computer, and I want to use it to install on another one. Will Microsoft accept that when I register the computer and how should I contact Microsoft on this issue? I went to their official website to see if this question was in their FAQs, but I couldn't find anything like this.
unfortunately you need to have a license for each computer which means you need to buy another copy or alternatively you can give Linux a try
I have installed the same OEM version of Windows XP on several hard drives, but never on harddrives connected to different motherboards. Is the motherboard firmware where microsoft keeps record when you register?
I think it's based on all your hardware... If you change a lot of components in your PC at once, then sometimes it can need re-activating. I've managed to transfer OEM licences to other PC's before (removing XP from the original pc first), but I had to activate over the phone, as the internet method wouldn't work.
Wow, you have actually been problems with this, thomas?? I thought they mostly just *say* you can't install it on more than one comp, but they won't actually do anything or find out if you do...
Yeah the online activation refused to work But I rang up, and a robot asked me a few questions, like how many computers I was using it on etc, and then they told me a code, and it was activated! Wasn't that hard, I think it's just to put people off transfering liceses to other PC's.
I can vouch for that. If they are suspicious it is on more than one computer, you will have to talk to a human to get your copy activated. They only ask some very simple questions, but if they are sure it is on more than one, I'm positive you will not end up with two activated copies
