Can I use any copy of XP to install on my Mac?

[Mjmar]

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]

You would need an actual install copy for the CD. The licenses may work. It depends on what CD's you actually have.

 

[eawmp1]

Those are probably OEM disk and will not work. Download Windows 7 RC. You'll be happy you did.

 

[Mjmar]

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]

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]

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...

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]

Your game should run under Windows 7. Although Microsoft does bonehead moves, it has allowed for backwards-compatability in 7.

 

[Mjmar]

I'm trying to download windows 7 now but all I've seen for 10 minutes is this screen:

 

[Nick A]

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]

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]

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.

 

[-tWv-]

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