Can I install windows using a retail key with a corp. disc?

Question

I have a valid windows XP Professional Key (retail) and I only have a corporate disc... Can I still legitimately install Windows?

Answer 1

No. Corporation or VLK licenses differ from retail keys. Retail keys require activation, VLK or Volume Licensing Keys are pre activated and don't require an activation after install. This will change in Windows Vista (upcoming OS from Microsoft) everything will need to be activated, even VLK.