Helping people with computers... one answer at a time.
Installing Windows XP using one manufacturer's CD on a different manufacturer's PC might sometimes work but it's not guaranteed at all.
Can I install Windows XP using one manufacturer's CD on a different pc?
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For example, can you install onto a Gateway PC using a Dell Windows XP distribution?
The best answer I can give is: probably not.
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There are situations it will work; typically using CDs from the smaller OEMs who've not customized their Windows XP distribution disks. However the larger manufacturers like Dell and Gateway often include drivers and utilities specific to their hardware.
It might work, but I wouldn't count on it.
Article C2091 - June 30, 2004
Leo A. Notenboom has been playing with computers since he
was required to take a programming class in 1976. An 18 year career as a programmer at Microsoft soon followed.
After "retiring" in 2001, Leo started Ask Leo! in 2003 as a place for answers
to common computer and technical questions. More about Leo.
I have a dell reinstallation CD for windows XP and I was wondering if I can use that on my Toshiba that also runs XP. I was going to try it but I dont want to mess it up anymore than it already is...So if somebody could comment I would greatly appreciate it...
22-Oct-2011
@Ashley
Posted by: Mark J at October 21, 2011 1:17 PMUnless it's an actual Windows XP installation disk, it's unlikely that it would work. Often installation or recovery disks are a disk image designed for that computer that will be copied to the disk and usually isn't compatible with other computers.
have successfully changed the registry for the proper references for scannow. Have used exact copies to C: I386 directory and done scannow, with each and every exact copy of I386 (eight total) on my machine, I always get errors not right CD.
Posted by: Jeannie at November 26, 2011 3:16 PMI would so appreciate help, i have used each one of the I386's at a time, malware smeared my PC and I really need to know what to do. Got no CDs with the PC, was built by a local co. no CDs, and out of business now. Is legal copy.
I need to reformat a Dell Dimension desktop, but I don't have the discs. Can I use a retail version of windows xp then use the original manufacturer serial key posted on the side of the computer?
16-Feb-2012
Now call me silly, but if you can't use the OEM Windows version you bought/ paid for, there are is one question that comes to my mind:
Posted by: Edward at February 29, 2012 8:10 AMso why can I then not order a machine WITH THE OS I WANT? Example: I want a Dell Latitude, or an ASUS Ultrabook, but only with Win XP Pro and not Win7. I bet you a 100 whatever-currency-you-are-on I will get a very polite "Sorry sir, but that is not possible"... So we all have to, not only pay for change of OS, but also spend loads to upgrade all your other software (eg Adobe, office programs...)?