Dell XP Pro vs OEM XP Pro

[phr0stbyt3]

I was wondering if there is any difference between the XP Pro that comes preloaded on a branded computer (such as Dell) and a homebrew computer using an XP Pro OEM?

Reason for asking is because I own a Dell laptop that needs windows reinstalled, but I don't have the disk that Dell sent with it, only an OEM version of XP Pro.

 

[amdfangirl]

It will work but it will not come with the stuff Dell preinstalls.

 

[Guest]

The Windows XP Pro OEM CD will require activation but the Dell CD won't. Are you sure you don't have a Dell System Recovery partition? Power on your computer and start hitting Ctrl F11 after the Dell BIOS splash screen to boot from the recovery partition.

Grumpy

 

[amdfangirl]

Might need a restoration disc tho.

 

[Guest]

There is no such thing as a "restoration disc" for a Dell.

Grumpy

 

[amdfangirl]

Oh, most OEM do. I don't have experience with Dells.