Windows XP + Vista HP Desktop Computer Options

[dugganrouthorn5]

Thank you @NonSequitur777, but the link you provided me is for installation of Windows XP Service Pack 3, the update file, not the ISO to install the operating system, sorry.

[NonSequitur777]

@dugganrouthorn5,

My bad, try this: https://drive.massgrave.dev/en_win_xp_pro_x64_with_sp2_vl_x13-41611.iso.

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777

[dugganrouthorn5]

Thank you for the ISO, this is the right kind of ISO File. However, it is not 32-bit which is most common on Windows XP and HP does not provide driver and software support for XP x64. Sorry again.

[NonSequitur777]

@dugganrouthorn5,

All right, I hope that the third attempt is the charm: https://archive.org/download/microsoft-windows-7-ultimate-with-service-pack-1-32-bit/Microsoft%20Win...:

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777

[dugganrouthorn5]

Sorry to disappoint you again but this is Windows 7 Ultimate. I need Windows XP Pro 32-bit, a HP OEM one to be specific, to help with activation of my HP Compaq DC5800 with a Windows Vista Business COA License. To also help with the XP Downgrade Rights.

[NonSequitur777]

@dugganrouthor

No worries, eventually I will hit the mark!

Let's see:

Option#1: https://archive.org/download/WinXPProSP2HPOEM/HP_OS_RESTORE_PROSP2.iso:

Option#2: https://archive.org/download/HPOperatingSystemCDWindowsXPHomeSP3OEM/HP_OperatingSystemCD%5Bwindows_x...:

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777

[dugganrouthorn5]

Perfect, the first one you linked above is the right one I need, thank you so much. I have another question, it might sound silly of me but can I dual boot Windows XP and Windows Vista on my HP Compaq DC5800? With XP installed thanks to XP Downgrade Rights on the system and Vista being installed and activated with the Vista Business HP COA License. Or would I need to buy a separate license to use the other operating system alongside either XP or alongside Vista? Is there a problem with what I'm asking?

[NonSequitur777]

@dugganrouthorn5,

You're very welcome! As for your question, dual-booting Windows XP and Windows Vista on your HP Compaq DC5800 should be possible, and your licensing situation should be fine.

Dual Booting XP and Vista:

• Since your system originally came with Windows Vista Business and you installed Windows XP via Downgrade Rights, your Vista COA should still allow you to reinstall and activate Vista without needing an additional license.
• The recommended approach is to install XP first (which you already have) and then install Vista on a separate partition. This ensures Vista’s bootloader correctly manages the dual-boot setup.
• Activation may require a phone call to Microsoft, but as long as both OS versions are for the same machine and use OEM licenses, there shouldn't be an issue.

 

Alternative Option – Virtual Machine (VM):

If you just need occasional access to XP or Vista, running one of them in a virtual machine (e.g., VirtualBox or VMware Workstation Player) could be a more convenient solution. This avoids the hassle of rebooting between OS versions. However, performance might be limited depending on your system specs.

Things to Watch Out For:

• SATA Mode & XP Install: If your BIOS is set to AHCI mode, XP might not install properly without additional drivers. Switching to IDE mode can help.
• Bootloader Issues: If you install Vista after XP, the bootloader should work fine, but if needed, tools like bcdedit or EasyBCD can help fix boot problems.
• Vista Activation: If the COA is OEM, online activation should work. If not, phone activation is the best option.

You will have to determine if you prefer dual-booting or running VM.

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777

[dugganrouthorn5]

Excellent, I think I'll just dual boot XP and Vista on the PC. Thank you very much for your help. I really appreciate it. ☺️

[NonSequitur777]

@dugganrouthorn5,

You are welcome!

If you don't mind, please indicate my response as an "Accepted Solution", as this will help other Users to find this discussion thread easier.

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777