But you can use a regular OEM XP disc for any machine, can't you? I've done it tons of times w/ the OEM disc I have, on several different machines (a few HP's, Compaqs, and Gateways). I haven't had to reenter the serial on all of them, but when I've had to, I've just had to call M$ and tell them that I reformatted the drive/get them to reactivate Windows for me. Unless I'm totally missing what you guys are arguing about. But from what I understand is that you are arguing that you can't use an OEM disc on any machine? Unless you mean an OEM disc that actually came with the manufactured PC..that I can see that it won't work on any other brand, but a regular OEM disc does work, b/c I've done it myself. I could be way off the point of what you guys are arguing (debating may be a better word =P) about, though.