Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

General discussion

Install Windows on new Mac

Nov 17, 2008 10:41PM PST

My daughter wants to install Windows XP to run Boot Camp on a new MacBook. Can she use the Windows disks that came with her old Dell PC, or are such disks specific to the computer they came with? She's here from Scotland, so doesn't have access to the disk. Can you help her (and me)?

I know that without more specs, it's like walking around in the dark, but any advice would be welcome.

Many thanks,

Jenny

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Re: installing XP
Nov 17, 2008 10:45PM PST

- She certainly needs a Windows XP CD.
- It's highly unlike the Dell cd's work. It's illegal anyway (they are tied to that particular Dell machine and may not be used elsewhere).

The thing to do: buy a retail copy with (new) licence code.

Kees

- Collapse -
(NT) Or not bother with Windows at all!
Nov 18, 2008 3:26AM PST