Licensing query

[Erm]

This isn't really a problem, just a query. We bought a machine at work that came with XP professional installed. We want to change it to a 2000 professional machine. Does the XP license cover us to do this?

 

[crjdriver]

This isn't really a problem, just a query. We bought a machine at work that came with XP professional installed. We want to change it to a 2000 professional machine. Does the XP license cover us to do this?

No. When you buy a copy of win2k, you will also be buying the license to use the software. If you already have a copy [and it is not installed on any other machine] then you can use that.

 

[RandyG]

You bought a machine and have a license to run XP on it. that does not give you the right to install another Operating System for free.

If you have an unused copy of Win2k, then you can install it, but if that copy is installed on another machine, you are violating the EULA.

You can use the XP on another machine, too, as long as it is removed from the original machine.

Basically, your license with Microsoft means you can install an OS on any machine, as long as it is installed on only one machine. Win2k and earlier also allowed you to install the OS on a laptop that would be used by one person. So, I have Win2k installed on my office computer, and the laptop I have been issued has the same OS on it, from that CD, and since the laptop is used solely by me, the primary user of the original install on my owrkstation, it falls within the EULA, saving us the cost of buying 2 copies of Win2k.

Got that??

Basically, have a good read of the EULA!

 

[Erm]

I actually contacted our supplier of the XP PC and it turns out that you are covered by the XP license to use any previous version of the operating system. Here are 2 extracts from the MS OEM EULA:

"Use of Previous Version of Software (Windows XP Professional only). This OEM EULA consists of a license to use one copy of Windows XP Professional. If you acquire PCs licensed for Windows XP Professional, then you are licensed to use identified previous versions of Windows Operating System Product(s) in lieu of Windows XP Professional (Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Professional, Microsoft® Windows NT® 4.0 or Microsoft® Windows® 98 (Second Edition)."

"Benefits
Downgrade Rights: The purchase of additional license to use certain identified older versions of the operating system is no longer required if the original OEM operating system is Windows XP Professional and you comply with the OEM EULA terms."

Thanks for your replies anyway!

 

[RandyG]

Cool, nice to see MS giving us something afterall!

I know they took away the Laptop use with XP, but at least they gave you the right to install a different OS.

Good thing you read that EULA, huh!