can I replace a motherboard on my computer running windows xp without software problems...?

Answer 1

If your replacement motherboard is similar to your original motherboard with respect to specifications (chipset, etc.), you may be able to get away with it. Windows XP installations are tied to a specific hardware configuration, and if that changes significantly, you may have to re-register with Microsoft - usually by calling it in or going online. (Microsoft Office installations are similar in that you have to re-register if something major changes.)

I replaced a motherboard in a computer I had and reinstalled everything fine - the restore disks didn't detect any problems and reinstalled everything for me without a hitch. The trick there was that my replacement was the exact same model as the original, so nothing in the new motherboard alerted my restore disks to a potential problem.

As for other software aside from Windows and Office, I don't think you should have a problem. Most other software doesn't care if you swapped out a hard drive or added memory, unless their installation schemes are tied to hardware as well. But as far as I know, most software doesn't have this extra security measure in place.