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Is it permissible to use copies of Windows XP downloaded from the Internet after the company has stopped producing it and newer versions have appeared?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The intellectual property right of a product does not lapse with the production of a newer version unless it is explicitly permitted [by the owner]. The effect of the second product on the first might not extend beyond a drop in price. It is not permissible to acquire software without the permission of its owners. However, if a person needs to copy it because the original is unavailable or they are unable to purchase it, then it is permissible for personal use only, provided that it is not used as a means of earning money, and is limited to the extent of the need.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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