Hey, I'm looking to put Windows XP on my MacBook, but I am wondering if I need a special version of Windows XP. Can I just purchase the basic Windows XP Home disks and install it with BootCamp? Any help is appreciated.
You need Microsoft Windows XP, Service Pack 2, Home Edition or Professional (No multi-disc, upgrade or Media Center versions. I have seen people using Vista too.
No, service packs are compilations of bug fixes, updates and sometimes new features for an existing version of a Microsoft operating system. If you purchase a retail copy of Windows XP, it will likely have SP2 integrated into it. However, if you do happen to purchase an older version of the disc, it is possible to "slipsteam" SP2 and create an updated CD. You must have a PC to do this and a blank CD to burn it onto.
Keep in mind that Bootcamp requires that SP2 be integrated into the install disc. It is not possible to install an older version and then later update to SP2 as it might be on normal PCs.
This is not a problem if you choose to run Windows via Parallels.
All retail copies of Windows XP are on a single disc. There was another poster who was confused and thought he needed another disc, but in fact, he discovered that he had accidentally ejected his CD.
You can purchase XP in just about any store that sells computer products, although some discount stores like Costco may have a lower price - especially now that Vista is out and they're trying to clear our old products.
SP2 can be downloaded from Microsoft's site as a standalone product if you need to integrate it for installing with Bootcamp. Instructions for creating such a disc are available here.
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