I want to format my friends computer, windows XP SP2 (genuine copy), I have a installation disc(not genuine).If i use that disc to install windows XP SP2.Will the windows be still genuine?.
She doesn't have cd or product key of the windows.
What should i do?
2007-02-05 07:56:44 · 4 answers · asked by Pawan 1 in Computers & Internet ➔ Programming & Design
you should retrieve the windows xp product key from her pc first, before formatting it - this free program can do that:
http://pcsupport.about.com/od/productkeysactivation/tp/topkeyfinder.htm
with that retrieved product key written down, you can use your installation cd to install windows and then use her legitimate key (from the old installation) to install it - then when windows is activated it will not fail because it's a unique and legal key.
you do need to make sure however, that it is the EXACT same version of windows that you're putting on the machine, because product keys vary depending on what kind of windows it is - oem, retail, etc. this means the key may not work if you install a different version from what was on originally.
basically though microsoft care about product keys more than they do copied discs, because as long as every installation is using a legal key then they are making their money.
also check around the tower of the pc first, often the windows xp product key is on a sticker stuck to the tower so it may be there.
2007-02-05 08:03:01 · answer #1 · answered by piquet 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are formatting then you are wiping the genuine copy off completely . Therefore if you was to use your copy it would no longer be genuine .. You could try back-up of her xp and try re-install from that . Although i havn't tried it that way myslef so i couldn't let you know if it works .
2007-02-05 08:03:12 · answer #2 · answered by MynameisShirl 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Make sure you check your non-genuine CD if it is Retail, VLK, or OEM. The license key must be for your type of CD!
It will not install if the license key and CD don't match.
2007-02-05 09:07:44 · answer #3 · answered by dawpa2000 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there's somewhat common option... in case you believed that the version of XP you receive change into authentic, then contact Microsoft. they're fairly useful and could (with somewhat of success) eliminate al the barriers on your computing gadget and make sure it.
2016-11-02 10:01:03 · answer #4 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋