if i install winxp pro (upgrade version) on multiple machines will M$ block my key?

Bellator · May 25, 2006, 04:37 PM

I have the WinXP pro upgrade version... to install this I use a WinME install disk I have. I currently have winXP pro on my main desktop, but am wondering if I build a second machine and install it using this method on that one if my key will get blocked?? Am I 'allowed' to install winXP pro on multiple machines?

Razgriz · May 25, 2006, 04:43 PM

Yes. As memory serves, i think you are allowed to use the cd-key 3 times (someone correct me if im wrong). As long as it is legal, as in bought, you should be good to go. Once that three times is up, you can call microsoft and ask for another i think

Ferret_Style · May 26, 2006, 12:28 PM

The key is only good for one computer. If you install it on more then one you are breaking the agreement you click yes to when installing. As for if you install it more then once on the same machine you can do that as many times as you want but after 3 you will have to call to get the activation code as the internet one will not work. When i built my system i rebuilt it 6 times before finally finishing. I called them 3 different times and told them what i was doing and had no problems. I know the cost is huge but it is safer to just buy another upgrade (though this is not 100% legit) it will save you money and less chance of MS hitting you for too many computers.

Office on the other hand can be installed on up to 3 of your own computers out of the box as the key is for 3.

Bellator · May 26, 2006, 01:58 PM

ok let me get this straight:

I CANNOT have the same install (key) simultaneously on two different builds.

If I build a whole new comp I will have to call M$ since as soon as I swap out the mobo that counts as a 'new' computer and I can only have the install repeated on the 'same' machine. Can I call M$ and will they let me install on a new build for free (if it isn't simultaneously on another computer)?

I can reinstall Win on the same machine 3 times, after that I have to call, but it will be free....

do I have it down?

GRRR if only there was real competition in the OS segment.... monopoly sucks.

PangingJr · May 26, 2006, 02:20 PM

i think it would be more easier to call Microsoft and get this story straight, and then if you have complaint, talk to Microsoft, or just send a letter to the company.

easyrider · May 26, 2006, 04:17 PM

I just bought a legit copy about 2 weeks ago after useing corp version for a long time, and I paid $149 with tax and all, but I also called MS to find out from them, how the key worked, they told me this. As long as you have it on a single machine, doesn't matter wich "single" machine you use, it's fine, you can even move it to another machine, as LONG as you only have it on a single machine, period, not 2 not 3, but 1 and that's it, it's fine, so you can say format one machine, sell it, (without the cd of corse), and build another and use that same key on that new machine, ms will not block it. If you do have it on 2 machines, ms will block it, and possibly slap you with charges, wich can be done if they so wish, because it's a single license only. Now if you buy multiple licenses, or a single licesense that cna be use on multiple machines, and both exsist, you can then use those accordingly. As for the useage of a key, the limit it unlimited, and whoever started that rumor is fulla crap. There is no time limit to the useage of a single key, there is only a limit to per machine you use it on. Multiple license packs are available, as well as 1 single key for multiple machines is available too, for say netwrok installs. I'm not sure on the price or place to get them but I know for a fact they exsist, because I know people with bussinesses and people with multiple keys that bought a like pack of keys. A friend of mine got like 10 keys for like $250 I think it was awhile back.
An that in short, or not so short, is how it works

Bellator · May 27, 2006, 06:30 PM

so, theoretically, if i wanted to stick it to M$, I could install it on a 'new' machine, and as long as my old one stayed offline they'd never be the wiser... yes?

cadaveca · May 27, 2006, 10:59 PM

I am using my WIndows XP home from an emachines from...well...abt 4 or 5 years ago. The orignal copy came on a set of restore CD's, but when servicepack2 came out, M$ offered free cd's containing SP2. I have since then installed this key on every one of my personal machines...but each has been an "upgrade"...whether i have built a whole new machine or not.

Each time i have installed, within 30 days, i must "activate" windows. Each time, i call the number listed on the activation screen, and gotten my "activation code".

Ther have been times, when swapping parts around pci slots, or flahsing bioses on vidcards, that i have recieved a notification that i must "activate" within 3 days, "As your hardware has significantly changed". One quick phonecall, and I'm good to go.

If you don't activate...after the time has expired, you cannot log into windows.

Through 20 or so systems, my cd-key has never failed to activate.