Win XP install questions (upgrade vs. fresh install)

[EZ_Squink McPoke]

I have a total of 3 legit copies of Win XP, 2 of them are upgrades and one is a full version.

The computer that I am going to be switching motherboards on in the near future (hence needing a new install of XP, switching from pentium to AMD processor) currently has the upgrade version of XP. I have windows ME disk (legit as well) that during my last upgrade I installed, then upgraded to XP from there.

I don't want to have an upgrade copy of win XP on that comp when I add new motherboard/processor if I can help it.

Can I use the full version windows XP disc to install fresh copy of XP, and use the upgrade registration key from the win XP upgrade disc/package? Or would it fail or trigger something to go bad right away or down the line?

If anyone knows, I'd appreciate if you can share.

edit: windows XP home version, if it matters Edited by: Squink McPoke at: 12/20/03 5:06 am

[Aidden]

First off, always do a fresh install if you can.

Second, you can do a full install with the upgrade CD. You will be prompted to insert the previous media proving you have it, but a full, fresh install is possible, and indeed waranted!!

[EZ_Squink McPoke]

That's the problem, the windows ME disc is the system restore disc from the computer that is getting the upgrade, and it isn't recognized as a legit old version of windows when I put it in during fresh install process of the upgrade CD.

So I was hoping I could use the fresh install on the regular non-upgrade XP CD but use the reg key from the upgrade version.

Sorry I wasn't more clear in my first post.

[Aidden]

nope keys wont work across versions...

you cant find a friend with a Win98 CD?

[PsiKoTicK]

I'm sure he could trip over one if he asked the right people, and win98 isn't licensed anymore, so we could in theory offer to send him one if he so desired.

I'm sure i have about 12 real copies of 98 laying around, and lord knows how many real copies of 95, not to mention copied copies

[EZ_Squink McPoke]

Thanks, I know my options now

Once 98 is "officially" non-supported if I can't find a friend with a disc I might take you up on the offer.