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View Full Version : Can I use any copy of XP to install on my Mac?



Mjmar
Jul 13, 2009, 11:25 AM
We've had several windows computers that all came with XP reinstall discs... Would I be able to use one of those discs to install XP into virtual box, or do I need to buy a copy of Windows?


thegoldenmackid
Jul 13, 2009, 11:26 AM
You would need an actual install copy for the CD. The licenses may work. It depends on what CD's you actually have.
eawmp1
Jul 13, 2009, 11:28 AM
Those are probably OEM disk and will not work. Download Windows 7 RC. You'll be happy you did.
Mjmar
Jul 13, 2009, 11:40 AM
Those are probably OEM disk and will not work. Download Windows 7 RC. You'll be happy you did.

I was going to, but I want to play a game that is compatible with XP... Not sure if it'll work with Windows 7. Plus I want it to be more of a permanent solution.
old-wiz
Jul 13, 2009, 12:01 PM
It's still possible to buy XP install disks. Some people say you can buy an OEM XP disk , others say you need full xP. either way, you need SP2 at least.
Tallest Skil
Jul 13, 2009, 12:03 PM
I was going to, but I want to play a game that is compatible with XP... Not sure if it'll work with Windows 7. Plus I want it to be more of a permanent solution.

Of course it will work natively... :eek:

And if it's a game from Windows 98 or older and it DOESN'T work, You have a full copy of XP included INSIDE Windows 7.
eawmp1
Jul 13, 2009, 12:03 PM
Your game should run under Windows 7. Although Microsoft does bonehead moves, it has allowed for backwards-compatability in 7.
Mjmar
Jul 13, 2009, 12:32 PM
I'm trying to download windows 7 now but all I've seen for 10 minutes is this screen:
Nick A
Jul 13, 2009, 12:39 PM
I'm trying to download windows 7 now but all I've seen for 10 minutes is this screen:

It only works on internet explorer, so you need to burn the CD on a Windows machine.
ian.maffett
Jul 13, 2009, 12:45 PM
It is possible to install from an OEM disk (such as Dell) as long as it's not an OLD system rebuild disk (you would know, it'll be printed on the disk).
As for licensing - OEM licenses are not supposed to be put on any machine other than the one the COA is stuck to. That being said, the rest is up to you.
Mjmar
Jul 13, 2009, 12:45 PM
It only works on internet explorer, so you need to burn the CD on a Windows machine.

Hmmmm.... just tried it in Firefox and it works.
touchdownjesus4
Jul 13, 2009, 03:20 PM
I'm trying to download windows 7 now but all I've seen for 10 minutes is this screen:

Try some other web browser besides safari. It worked for me with firefox