Windows xp pro retail vs oem

[Eddie1969]

I'm looking to buy xp pro os and wondering what is the better choice. I plan on installing on one computer only forever, or at least until I get a new puter, If I build a new puter and want to put xp pro back on it, or if I need to reinstall the os will I need to call Msoft to get a validation code to install and authenticate with the oem version? Is this also true with the retail version?

what other problems may I experience buying the cheaper oem version as opposed to the retail version.

I never call for computer support, so I'm not worried about that aspect. And I don't need a book, so what benefit is there to buying the retail version?

Thanks for any insight anyone can give.

Ed

 

[Geoff]

The OEM is fine, its basically the same thing as the retail but without the fancy packaging. If you need to activate more then one additional time, just give them a call and they'll tell you how to activate it for free.

 

[terii]

Go with the OEM version. No fancy packaging but the software is identical to the retail version. Changes are only in the setup. As for activation, I use OEM and have activated the same copy on my machine many times. I do not know where the one time activation comes from but if you have problems and MS will activate your copy for free then go for it.