Computer_Phreak, I cannot advocate pirating any software. Just because m$ hasn't done much [yet] to punish people that crack their OS, doesn't mean they won't in the future. Then again, that may be the reason why they charge so damned much for the OS.
As long as I can obtain OEM copies of the OS, I won't purchase retail versions. The OEM copies are about half the price of the retail ones, which makes the price closer to what OS X runs (the OEM copy runs about $150).
As for xpee, it blows for laptops, especially IBM laptops. With w2k, on IBM laptops, you CAN control the processor speed (IBM's speedstep technology) which allows you to run the processor at full speed when plugged in (fro power) as well as when running on battery. You can customize it as you like, with speedstep, so that it runs slower on battery, but full out on AC. With xpee, you can TRY to set it, but xpee ignores your settings and does as it wants. It even reduces the processor speed when plugged in. I know this for a FACT since I had an eval T30 from IBM that came with xpee. I then got one with 2k, which ran a hell of a lot better. 2k also has better WiFi connectivity as opposed to xpee. Xpee makes you used "secure" connections only (unless you want to constantly hit buttons) where 2k accepts what you give it for settings.
I suppose it's all just a matter of taste, and how much control you want to give up to m$. Also, people with taste use OS X, not windblows.
