Except that only a VLK version takes VLK keys. A retail or OEM copy of any version of Windows will not accept VLK keys so you're wrong - it is not just the key that seperates them. However, x64 versions of the legendary corpfiles seem to be going around at the moment. It contains only a few changed files (around 12MB worth) that you put onto the CD in place of the original files resulting in a VLK version.

What the hell has having an MCSE got to do with the fact you're wrong in saying that any XP can accept a VLK? Try it yourself. Get an OEM or Retail XP CD and put in a VLK key and it will tell you it's invalid. If you claim I'm wrong, you are lying. It's a fact, like it or not. I don't care about your MCSE, you're still wrong and you can see for yourself. Besides, how do you know I don't have an MSCE too? Stupid comment.

Oh, I replied to the wrong one :) Apologies, I got my wires crossed there. Anyway, yes, the CD key is part of the equation but an OEM/Retail OS will not accept a VLK so the CD itself does matter also.

Not at all - the world hasn't got much to do with VLKs in my book :) I did post a follow up apologising for misreading but I'll apologise again :)