Windows XP SP2 Retail vs. OEM version

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$85 - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116056

$200 - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16837116193

I want to play games on my Macbook Pro, but I'll need Windows XP. I don't want to deal with things like Crossover, I just want Windows XP. The thing is, there's the OEM version of about $85 and then there's the Retail version of $200 bucks. Which one should I use if I want to play video games, but let's say...
I have problems installing it in the middle of installation, I hear that once you've activated with the OEM version you cannot reinstall it on another computer, it can only be on one motherboard.
What if something goes wrong and i want to reboot the entire Windows XP OS on Boot Camp, can the OEM CD still be used?

What if I decide to upgrade to a 4GB memory card and want to be able to run Windows through Parallels or Fusion, where I can easily go from OS X to Windows, but had originally installed it on Boot Camp? Can i have it installed on Boot Camp and also on parallels, or do I have to uninstall it from Boot Camp and reinstall it on Parallels without having to deal with Microsoft to give me a new CD key. Can all of this be done through OEM, or is this the part where i have to get the $200 Retail.

Also, Should I even BOTHER buying it, or should i just dl'ed a student Windows XP where it's meant to be copied and installed a million times??

Opinions and professional feedback would be greatly appreciated ASAP.
 

chscag

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Lot of questions.....

Download the student version provided it's a full install copy including SP2 and burn it to a CD. (the CD has to be bootable) That will save you money and maybe some headaches.

OEM copy of WinXP SP2 for $85.00 is the same as the MS retail copy with the restrictions you mentioned. Can only be installed on one machine and can not be moved even if the machine dies. :Angry-Tongue: (that's what the MS EULA specifies)

Parallels, Fusion, versus Boot Camp: You can use the same copy of XP but it will have to be activated separately for Boot Camp and once again for the virtual machine version.

Regards.
 

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