Acquire Windows XP License Keys Legally

I'd like to get my hands on to legal Windows XP keys so that I could setup a few virtual machines. I'm a software developer and this would be greatly useful.

I'm willing to buy them (cheaply) if needed but I've not been able to identify a source for legal Windows XP keys. Is it possible for a previous user to resell Windows XP or is this against Microsoft's terms?

I am aware of MSDN Subscriptions, but I was hoping to keep this entire project within $50 (USD). I only need two to four keys...

(Note: The legal portion is extremely important. I don't even want to be in the gray here...)

Solution 1:

Retail copies of XP can be resold with no problem. OEM copies are tied to the machine (specifically, the motherboard) and therefore non-resaleable after install. Also, you want to have physical possession of the sticker the key is on.

Solution 2:

Are you in a startup? If so, BizSpark may be useful.

Solution 3:

Newegg is still selling XP Pro licenses, but they are very expensive at $440 for a 3-pack or $140 for a single license.

Solution 4:

Soeone else mentioned bizspark and you questioned if you were eligible:

Taken from the MS pdf

Startup Eligibility Requirements: An eligible startup must have the following characteristics at the time of joining:

• Actively engaged in development of a software-based product or service that will form a core piece of its current or intended business

• Privately held

• In business for less than 3 years

• Less than US $1 million in annual revenue.

I think that even a personal project would fit that. Their goal I think is to win back some of the people who have been leaving the MS platform for Linux and Mac.

I'd investigate if I were you. All it would take is a domain name and email with that domain that was hosted anywhere. You also have to provide a website with contact info. (I might be confusing this with one of their other programs, but they may be the same)

Solution 5:

You could always save your money and download Virtual PC images from Microsoft, although you'd have to get new ones every few months.