I am building a new computer soon and I was wondering if I could use my Dell Windows Xp disc to install on my new custom built. Or do I need to buy a new Windows xp for it to work with it?

No you can not. It will install, but will Never activate.

What if I have never used the disc. I haven't even opened the package that it's in.

It only works with Dell OEM's.

Funny because I've used it on a custom build before.

Friend had a Dell Slim Line, used the "Repair" CD to install XP on the new computer. Had to call Microsoft for the activation, but it was that easy.

You could give it a try, but usually they are device specific and won't work.

May you will be able to reactive it but still not a legal version for your build. An OEM is really cheap but it tied to the computer, so not transferable. That the difference between OEM and Retail.

There is a sticky about that subject here:
http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/236023-44-retail

Yes it will work and will probably even activate. Unlike most OEM OS discs Dell's will activate without a problem on almost any system. You can debate the legality of doing so but it will install, activate, receive updates and work the same as any other legit copy of XP. Also I really wouldn't be too concerned about the software police busting down your door for using it.

p.s. Even if you do install it and it doesn't activate online, Microsoft supplys you with a toll free number to call and activate it.

The Dell XP disks will not activate. They have a bogus cd key that will allow for instal but will not activate. All Dell XP have a Preactivated WPA file on the disks and if installed on a Dell will never ask to activate.

To the OP download VM Ware and install the Dell XP on a Viritual PC and try to Activate it .... It Will NOT work I have tried with XP pro and MCE.

I just wont work.


1Haplo

It wont work...........but.......there are ways to make it work and I'm not telling how.

Eh ok. I've done it and it worked fine. Used the CD-Key that comes with all Dells that was stickered on the back and the "Repair" CD that came with the Dell.

Installed it into a completely new machine (nothing was re-used from the Dell). Worked fine, had to call Microsoft to get the authorization code, and that worked.

I just explained that the old motherboard had blown up (convienent) and it was being reinstalled on a new machine.

To those saying it won't activate, 1. I've done it plenty of times while working for a certain computer repair 'Squad'. Dell OEMs were coveted because unlike HP and Gateway OEMs they usually don't require any additional steps to activate. And like I said activation isn't really anything difficult, just call the 1800 number and it's activated in 5 mins without any cracks.

Yes, it will activate... but you might have to call MS to get the activation code. Not a big deal really.

Ok, so some of you are saying it will work and some of you are saying it won't. If I do manage to install it, do I have to call microsoft or will it activate online? Should I make up some excuse for having to call for activation? Also where can I find the 1-800 number?

The 1-800 number comes up when you try to activate. You just tell them the code you see on screen and just tell them what you want. I told them it burned up so I didn't have to answer a bunch of questions.

You will have to keep that sticker (or side panel of your Dell's case). This piece of paper is the only thing valuable for XP (not the disk).