Getting XPw/Media to Join Domain

I have done some research, not with majorgeeks.com, and have gotten the same answer to my question.

I need to get two DELL computers to join a domain, however, the only thing I can get them to do is to join a WRKGROUP. I have Window XP with Media installed. I have been told to re-format and totally reinstall XP Pro. Because of the volume of information on the hard drives, and the pain to reinstall all the various programs, I am trying to see if there is an earier way. Some backdoor trick to get the switch turned on...

Thanks for any help!

 

Unless you have Pro installed, regular XP or Media Center, will not connect to a Domain. You can though make the Domain allow said computers connect through FTP, which would work.

 

I was afraid of that. Using an FTP would be really cumbersome. What would happen if I installed Xp Pro 64 bit? Do I have to worry about all programs that are on the machine not running?

 

There is more than one version of the XP (pro) 64 bit. Microsoft are replacing the original which was called
Windows XP 64 bit edition
with
Windows XP pro x64

They are not compatible

In principle all your programs will work with either version, but not all hardware will in particular only certain AMD and Intel processors.

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/default.mspx