I have recently bought a notebook, with original Windows XP Home installed (I
suppose it's OEM). I want to install a new instance of Windows XP inside a
virtual machine (VMWare), on the same computer. Can I do it? I am having
problems on activating Windows with the virtual machine, because the Product
Key is the same I've already used for the original installation of Windows.
Can anyone help me?

You cannot use the same Windows XP license. If you wish
to install Windows XP on a Virtual Machine, you'll need to
purchase a new Windows XP license. Virtual Machines are
treated just like conventional computers when it comes to
licensing agreements.

Example:

Microsoft Windows XP Home With SP2 - OEM
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16832116056


--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows Shell/User

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Jonatan" wrote:

| I have recently bought a notebook, with original Windows XP Home installed (I
| suppose it's OEM). I want to install a new instance of Windows XP inside a
| virtual machine (VMWare), on the same computer. Can I do it? I am having
| problems on activating Windows with the virtual machine, because the Product
| Key is the same I've already used for the original installation of Windows.
| Can anyone help me?

Jonatan wrote:
> I have recently bought a notebook, with original Windows XP Home installed (I
> suppose it's OEM). I want to install a new instance of Windows XP inside a
> virtual machine (VMWare), on the same computer. Can I do it?


Technically, yes. But you do need a second license.


> I am having
> problems on activating Windows with the virtual machine, because the Product
> Key is the same I've already used for the original installation of Windows.
> Can anyone help me?


One can buy additional licenses, assuming one already has a retail
license. Naturally, Microsoft cannot sell additional OEM licenses. Be
aware, however, that you'll probably pay more this way than you would if
you were to buy a second copy of WinXP from a discount retailer;
Microsoft will only offer you a 15% discount off their MSRP.

Additional Licenses for Windows XP Home Edition
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/h...buy/addlic.asp

Additional Licenses for Windows XP Professional
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/p...buy/addlic.asp


--

Bruce Chambers

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