For the OEM version, you call the OEM. This won't be Microsoft. This issue can confound, annoy and cause people to break out into a phone killing rage. Be very aware that OEM support is not from Microsoft in any way.
But some can use it to save a few bucks.
If you have a qualifying Windows ME CD, then the Upgrade is the cheapest. The AE would have to be examined more closely for price and license/support (may be the same do-not-call-Microsoft issue?)
The OEM versions I've used don't move to new hardware so that's an issue for upgraders...
I'm sure you'll get a lot to digest on this question.
Bob
I am going to update my daughters OS to XP from ME. Which version would you recommend? Full or Upgrade. Retail, OEM or Academic (she qualifies to purchase AE). The student bookstore only has Upgrade available in the AE version and say they don't think a full copy is available in AE. She formats and reinstalls OS quite regularly (kid seems to download everything), I was told that after reinstalling XP about 3 times with OEM version of XP a phone call to Microsoft was necessary to reactivate it every time after. The computer is only a couple years old so I don't want to replace it. Thanks for any help and advice.
Alan

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