do you have to de-register windows xp to use elsewhere?

[vicars]

Hi, I bought a Mac and want to use a full version of Windows XP as part of Boot Camp. My query is do I need to de-register my current copy on an old laptop to use it on a new computer or do i just reload it and re-register? I do not want to be seen by Microsoft as having an illegal copy when it is a full version bought by me to use intead of the basic XP (my version is XP Pro) that came with the old laptop. Any replies gratefully received. Thx.

[wildwood]

All later XP CDs codes have a certain re-register quota, not sure how often though, but certainly more than 2 times per year. Providing that your XP has not been copied by someone else and the code key used (extensively), you should have no problem activating your Windows on a new computer.

[vehelpfulguy]

If your XP is a full boxed retail version then legally you CAN move it to a new PC as long as you remove it from the old PC.

If it is the OEM version (that usually only comes in a plastic sleeve with a sticker you stick on the side of your PC) then legally you CANT move it to another PC.

[SteveSx1]

There is software out there that allows you to change the code - don't ask how I know or Whether I use it though
That would be illegal and naughty !!!

[Mac70]

And that software usually comes with a price.

[markysngc]

the worst that will happen is the web based registration will fail, if so they will give you a phone number to call, even if it is an OEM copy just tell them you changed the motherboard and had to reinstall and they will give you a reregistration code

Not sure of legality of this, but hey if you purchased the copy (even if it's OEM and it come with a computer) and your only using it on one computer IMO your morally OK (especially as by looks of your post you have paid for 2 XP licenses and are only using one copy on one computer!)

[ACtheTROLL]

It's a real sticker this one .... microsoft know which serial numbers are sold to which suppliers ...
an oem copy costs a fraction of the retail price - partly because microsoft know you'll have to buy a new copy when you upgrade ... when you register a checksum is generated based on the hardware.

I've seen quite a few cases where a failed mobo is sufficient to invalidate the agreement .... and microsoft won't activate because technically it classes as a new machine.

however you can reinstall to the same machine without a problem (you could have to get ms to authorise .. but if the checksum is the same ... there is no problem