Is there any way to download an ISO of the installer for older versions of windows (2000, XP, 7...) legally?

Somebody 0 Reputation points
2026-08-17T20:54:04.8+00:00

I would like to install an older version of windows (specifically xp) on an old computer that i have. Is there a way to do this legally? If i have the license key would it be ok to download the iso file from a third party website?

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Install and upgrade
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  1. Marcin Policht 108.3K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2026-08-17T22:02:01.24+00:00

    Unfortunately downloading the installation file from a third-party website is not officially supported by Microsoft and (besides the obvious security risk) constitutes copyright infringement because those sites are distributing Microsoft's intellectual property without legal permission. The very act of downloading from an unauthorized source remains a civil violation of software copyright terms.

    If the above response helps answer your question, remember to "Accept Answer" so that others in the community facing similar issues can easily find the solution. Your contribution is highly appreciated.

    hth

    Marcin

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