Building 1st comp, can I use previous XP disc?

[jl766]

I'm building my first computer next week and I don't know what I'm doing. I am looking forward to learning as I go, but I have a question about the OS. Can I use the windows XP disc that came with my Dell on my new build or will I have to buy a new OS?

Thanks for any help!
Jeremy

[Broni]

No, your XP disk is tied up to your old computer hardware. You can still use it in your new computer, if you reformat it. You'll also need OS CD.

[patio]

Depends on the CD...
If it is a Dell Restore CD also known as an OEM CD it will only install properly on that Dell as Broni suggested.
If it is a shiny XP CD with holograms and says MS all over it it can be installed on the new machine provided it is deleted from the old machine. It will have to be re-activated thru MS.

I won't even go into Volume liscense CD's...