How many times can you install WinXP(pro) on your own system?

I got a legit version of WinXP(pro) and just talking to someone on here, and then remembering hearing something in the past about only being able to install your OS an X amount of times.
Is there a certain/limited amount of times you can reinstall your OS?
Or not?....thanks...

 

There is no limit, if there are no substantial hardware changes.

 

I've revamped my pc several times and done clean installs of XP Pro. All they do is ask you how many pc's that copy of windows is on. Then they have you enter a number and activation is done

 

ya like playin said i read as long as the hardware changes aren't drastically different, it's as many as you want...but im not too clear on this, but if you do it after 3 times (meaing re-install, then you have to call microsoft and they give you some number...is that what you're talking about bonkers?
thanks

 

I have installed my XP Pro many many times over the last few years and i have never had to phone them up..Unless you have hardware changes then yes you will need to phone them up but it is very straight forward.

 

They keep track of your activation in the MS database for a period of 120 days. If you activate more than once in that period, you will have to call it in.

 

ah ok...well...glad i didnt buy this copy...and definitely dont plan on buying any of the newer MS stuff...how easy is linux in terms of learning curve? =)

 

linux is a whole different beast lol. actually you can almost get by completely using it just as a desktop PC, but the real power is in the command line. sort of like DOS on steroids. i'm in month 2 of it, and i'm loving it more and more everyday.

the big problem is that most people are used to the ease of MS products. linux makes you work a bit more, but i also feel you have a lot more freedom.

as far as apps go, there are enough free open source apps to take place of most of the MS apps you are used to using (Open Office instead of MS office, Thunderbird instead of Outlook, etc etc)

it's a big change of pace but if you have the time and patience it's worth it in my opinion.

if you want to try out linux without installing it, check out Knoppix. it's a live downloadable CD (iso images) that boots into a working linux enviroment, yet it doesn't install anything on your computer. good for troubleshooting and just checking out linux in general. i know S_P_D is running a version of Fedora Core, and Phillip i believe knows a great deal about the different linux distros. there are a few of us floating around...