Installing the same Windows license on several partitions

[commodorejohn]

Just get a corporate pre-activated XP ISO from *somewhere*. This allows you to simply install it once and copy all the files onto other partitions. Just modify your own boot.ini.

This. As long as you're scrupulous about never allowing Windows Genuine Spyware Advantage through in the updates, you're in the clear. (And it's not like you can buy a new copy of XP anyway.)

[commodorejohn]

I think it might depend on the install disk you use, but XP Corporate (which has already been recommended) doesn't come with WGA pre-loaded, so all you have to do is set Windows Update to notify and ask for permission instead of automatically downloading and installing, then block WGA and tell it never to bring it up again. Presto, problem solved.