Changing Operating System Question.

Hey,

I'm just about to buy a Vostro 1500 (needs to be done within the next 5 hours) but need help deciding about which operating system to choose, and to check if I would be able to do what I'm hoping to.

I have a legal XP Pro license (not being used), I also have the XP Restore disks for a Vostro 1500 (my brothers) - would I be able to order the Vostro with 'Genuine Windows Vista® Business - English' then when I get it install XP with the unused license and install Vista Business on my PC?

Also, would a 32bit Vista Business key be valid with a x64 version of Vista Business?

Hope that made sense,

Thanks in advance,

Andy.

 

What you are doing is illegal and NBR resents such posts. Admins, please close this thread!

 

You would not be able to install Vista Business on any computer other than your Vostro.

 

Obviously I didn't know it was illegal, and I'm not "trying to do it" it was a question if it's allowed, no need to close the thread.

I assumed as long as you didn't install the same license on a PC/Laptop twice (which I'm not doing, I own 2 legal Retail XP licenses) it was fine.

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Ok then, since I can't do that, am I able to order it with Vista Business - Install a LEGAL RETAIL UNUSED copy of XP onto the laptop when I get it, and then at a later date re-install Vista Business on it without a problem?

 

Cheer up! I was just kidding!

 

If you have a legal unused XP license, then yes you can install it on your Vostro. The biggest challenge will be to find drivers, but I'm pretty sure if you search the forums for Vostro 1500 (or Inspiron 1520) XP drivers you'll find what you need.

And yes, you can reinstall Vista on your Vostro at any time. Since it's an OEM license, it will only work with that laptop. Also, per the OEM EULA, the license if only valid for whatever version (32 or 64 bit) you purchase.

However, depending on your HD size, you might want to dual boot XP and Vista instead of wiping Vista and then installing it again later. It might save you some work.

When you post things like your first post in this thread (which BTW did NOT initially have the rolly sarcastic eyes after it) people will believe you, so either post the truth or indicate clearly that you're being sarcastic.

 

Thanks, one last question - since I already have the XP restore disks that come with a Vostro 1500 (which I assume contain all the drivers, etc) do you know if I'd be able to use that disk, but with my un-used license key rather than the one that came with the other laptop?

Or do I definitely have to go through the hassle of installing it from the retail disk and then hunting down all the drivers?

Thanks again.

 

I don't think so; you'll have to use the retail disks. However, you should be able to use the XP drivers DVD that came with the other Vostro on yours.

 

Thanks for the quick replies. Ordered it with Vista Business and will dual boot with XP.

Now I just have to hope I don't get one with the headphone crackling issue