Is it legal to run Windows on the Mac?

Yes, provided that one purchases the copy of Windows that is installed.

This was a question asked more frequently when creative hackers made it possible to run Windows XP on the Intel-based Macs, but yes, it is legal to run Windows on Intel-based Macs using the open-source "XOM hack", Apple's Boot Camp, and software programs from Parallels, VMWare, and others.

Does Apple pre-install Windows on Intel-based Macs?

Apple does not pre-install Windows on Intel-based Macs. However, some Apple Authorized Resellers, including site-sponsor PowerMax, can install Boot Camp and Windows upon request when purchasing a new system. PowerMax does not charge for the installation time, just for the cost of the Windows operating system.

Does Apple support running Windows on the Mac? Does Microsoft?

Apple does not provide support for Windows on the Mac, even when installed using Apple's Boot Camp solution. In a "Requirements, Installation, and FAQ" document at the Apple Support Site, Apple provides the following warning:

Boot Camp Beta is preview software licensed for use on a trial basis for a limited time. Do not use Boot Camp Beta in a commercial operating environment or with important data. You should back up all of your data before installing this software and regularly back up data while using the software.

Apple does not provide technical phone support for using Boot Camp Beta, burning the Macintosh Drivers CD, or installing Windows XP. Support is available on Apple's website. Fee-based support agreements are not available for Boot Camp Beta.

On page 3 of the "Boot Camp Beta Setup and Installation Guide" Apple states more bluntly:

Apple Computer does not provide support for installing or running Boot Camp Beta or Microsoft Windows software.

If something goes wrong, effectively, you're on your own. Consequently, in accordance with Apple's recommendation, EveryMac.com does not advise installing Windows on a "mission critical" Intel-based Mac.

Microsoft, however, will provide the same level of technical support for any other copy of Windows purchased retail provided that you are able to successfully install Windows using Boot Camp.

Where can I buy Windows for an Intel-based Mac?

You cannot purchase a commercial version of Windows specifically to install on an Intel-based Mac, but you can purchase a retail copy of Windows XP Pro and install the operating system using any of the programs available, most notably Apple Boot Camp, Parallels Desktop for Mac, or VMWare Fusion.