My New Computer, My First Build
Along with the CPU, I also ordered my new OS, Windows XP PRO Service Pack 2 OEM. I chose WinXP PRO for a couple reasons. At $145.00, it wasn't that much more expensive than WinXP Home. Pro has a few features not included in the Home addition, which I may or may not use, but may want later. Also, when the next Windows version, (Longhorn?) comes out, it will only be a matter of time before Microsoft discontinues support for XP, but I'm betting support will be around a lot longer for the Pro version than for the Home version.

I was a little leary about getting the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) version but after doing some research at the Microsoft site and others, I found that as long as I affixed the included sticker, which has the activation key, to the back of the computer case I would be OK since I am building the computer for my self and it's not for retail sale. This way it was much cheaper, and, since I'm already familiar with XP, I dont need extensive printed documentation.