XP License Availability Roadmap

Tuesday, 15 April 2008

Here’s what Microsoft has to say about when they will stop selling various Window XP flavors: (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/lifecycle/default.mspx)

Under the Support Lifecycle policy, Windows desktop licenses are available for four years after general availability in all standard product distribution channels (e.g. direct OEM, System Builders, retail, and Volume Licensing programs via licenses or via downgrade rights). Licenses will continue to be available through downgrade rights available in Volume Licensing programs after end of general availability.

Windows XP Professional
Date of General Availability
December 31, 2001

Direct OEM and Retail License Availability (end date)
June 30, 2008

System Builder License Availability (end date)
January 31, 2009

Windows XP Tablet PC Edition
Date of General Availability
February 11, 2003

Direct OEM and Retail License Availability (end date)
June 30, 2008

System Builder License Availability (end date)
January 31, 2009

Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
Date of General Availability
April 25, 2005

Direct OEM and Retail License Availability (end date)
June 30, 2008

System Builder License Availability (end date)
January 31, 2009

Windows XP Home Edition
Date of General Availability
December 31, 2001

Direct OEM and Retail License Availability (end date)
June 30, 20083

System Builder License Availability (end date)
January 31, 2009

Windows XP Media Center Edition2
Date of General Availability
October 28, 2002

Direct OEM and Retail License Availability (end date)
June 30, 2008

System Builder License Availability (end date)
January 31, 2009

A few more thoughts on this (and loop holes):
How-to get Windows XP past the June 30th cutoff (or not)
How to Get Windows XP After June 30