FULL - OEM - UPDATE versions of Windows XP SP2

[pawluk]

I want to buy a PC from Dell's outlet, but today most of these PCs come with VISTA. My current PC is also a Dell and it runs an OEM version of Windows XP SP2 - with all available MS updates (except for a few, like IE7, WMP11, etc). I hate VISTA and therefore want to buy Microsoft Windows XP SP2, but there are several versions to choose from. Thus far, at various (reputable) online retailers, I find a FULL version, two types of OEM versions, and an UPGRADE version.

My plan includes purchasing a scratch 'n dent PC with (sadly) VISTA loaded, partition the HDD (adding 2 or 3 additional logical drives), and then install a fresh copy of Windows XP SP2. Since Dell generally includes a separate drivers disc, I am not concerned about XP device drivers. Perhaps I should be, but I don't know what to expect at this time and that's why I am posting this topic.

At tigerdirect, an authorized MS online retailer, I reviewed a few of the comments associated with OEM and UPGRAD versions. If true, it appears that the UPGRADE version may work if the user had a previous FULL version CD - like WINDOWS 98SE (which I have) - to fool the UPGRADE version into thinking it is actually updating an existing Windows O/S.

The OEM versions concern me, but I don't really know what I missing by not buying the FULL version. One thing I know I won't miss is MS support, and if that's what an extra $100 gets me, then screw MS.

- FULL at $180-200, I prefer not.
- OEM at $90-100, preferred, if workable
- UPGRADE at $80-90, possible, if workable

Does anyone have a comprehensive perspective on the differences, pros and cons, associated with the FULL, OEM and UPGRADE versions of Windows XP SP2?

Thanks in advance,

Pawluk

[Raymond]

I am not really sure about the differences but the Full and OEM version works exactly the same. I am running Windows XP Pro Full version and my client's HP computer is running Windows XP Pro OEM, I see no difference at all. It's true that OEM versions doesn't include phone support from Microsoft, no retail packaging, and no manual provided.

As for the update version, I believe you must have an older version of Windows already installed on your hard drive of the system that you plan to install the upgrade on.

[Kees]

Pawluk, I take it that you are referring to an UPGRADE version when you talk of "UPDATE". My advice: go for this upgrade version. Strictly speaking you need an older OS to install an upgrade version, but they just ask you to insert the older OS' installation disk once. That is all, they don't run a check on its ID. That being done the installation is precisely the same as with an OEM or retail version. The only difference I can think of is that it might (just might) be more difficult to slipstream an upgrade version.

[pawluk]

Thank you for your reply, Kees.

Yes, you are correct - my bad - I did mean UPGRADE and don't know why I was so blind not to catch it.

In addition, I had a reply to Raymond's response that included my further research following my initial post, but it appears to have been removed for some reason. It included the following detail...

After posting, I found www.infocellar.com/WinXP/oem-recover-retail.htm where they state:

Full - also called Retail Full version - most expensive, can be transferred to another machine, so long as it is uninstalled from the old machine. If you lie and do not uninstall it - then the old machine will run, but will act as any other machine running a pirated version (i.e. it will not validate with WGA and will only be allowed to receive critical updates). CAN MOVE FROM MACHINE TO MACHINE (just make sure you uninstall then reinstall, and re-activate. You may need to call Microsoft for re-activation).

Upgrade - also called Retail Upgrade version - much less than Full - and usually just a tad more than OEM unbranded. The setup.exe will not run from DOS, but all you have to do is boot from the CD, start installing, and when XP says that it doesn't detect an operating system and to please insert an OS disk, put in your Win98 disk. CANNOT MOVE FROM MACHINE TO MACHINE and CANNOT Replace/Update CPU or Motherboard (will fail validation when running Windows update).

OEM Branded - comes installed with a new PC (branded OEM). Functionally identical to unbranded OEM. Can only be installed on ONE MACHINE. After that, even if you have a fire or a complete system failure and need to get a new machine . . . you will have to but a new copy of Windows XP. OEM = OnE Machine. CANNOT MOVE FROM MACHINE TO MACHINE and CANNOT Replace/Update CPU or Motherboard (will fail validation when running Windows update).

OEM UnBranded - bought separately (not with a PC). Functionally identical to branded OEM. Can only be installed on ONE MACHINE. After that, even if you have a fire or a complete system failure and need to get a new machine . . . you will have to but a new copy of Windows XP. OEM = OnE Machine CANNOT MOVE FROM MACHINE TO MACHINE and CANNOT Replace/Update CPU or Motherboard (will fail validation when running Windows update).

Recovery CD - comes with new PC, and contains an "image" of the hard drive, including Windows XP and all the software drivers and utilities that come with the PC. Very restrictive because you need to wipe out the entire drive, then the image is refreshed. Cannot be used when the system asks you to "insert the Windows XP CD". Cannot be used to refresh certain XP files that are missing or corrupted, unless you blow everything away and start over. A terrible idea and a terrible way to go !!! CANNOT MOVE FROM MACHINE TO MACHINE and CANNOT Replace/Update CPU or Motherboard (will fail validation when running Windows update).

Like you, Kees, they highly recommend buying the UPGRADE version, which requires an existing Windows 98/98SE disc. I do have a 98SE disc, but its another Dell OEM disc so I don't know if it will work.

Thanks again!

Pawluk

[Odie]

@ Pawluk: If you reply to a post and it does not display immediately, it is because your post has been moved into moderation.

[Sai Charan]

I don't understand why he write posts with a large amount of data

[Kees]

There is yet another option. Dell XP installation disks don't require activation when you install on a Dell machine. Just find another Dell owner and borrow his installation disk. Success!