my windows xp came already installed where can i get a back up disk?

Question

mine did not come with a disk and now i need one

and will it work if the motherboard has been changed

Answer 1

I would contact the company that sold you your computer. For example, I bought my computer from Dell and recently needed some disks for the drivers. I contacted Dell and they sent me to necessary disks, free of charge!

Answer 2

Depending on the manufacturer of the computer, you should be able to create a set of backup disks. Usually it's under the Accessories/System Tool folder in Startup, or under All programs and under the vendor of the computer. Plan on anywhere from 3-8 CD.s

As others mentioned, contacting the manufacturer is usually a good bet. Cost is anywhere from free to around $20.00.

As for the motherboard change, technically MS won't let you reinstall Windows that came with the machine because that machine is "tied" to that copy of Windows - meaning it expects to see all of the original hardware intact (it will usually let you install additional hard drives and the like, but the CPU and Motherboard are tied to the original installation).

If you try to use the copy of windows that came with the original machine, don't be surprised if it doesn't Validate you when you try to activate it.

Although it is more expensive, buying a retail copy if your original Windows XP disk is unavailable is a good idea because the retail version (the one you would get off the shelf in a major retailer) doesn't have this restriction. The only catch is you can't have it installed on more than one machine.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Well, the first thing you should do is to make sure your computer has a valid Windows XP license key. It is very usual for a new computer to come without at least a recovery disk, which contains Windows XP installation files. Please read this article on how to create a recovery disk from installation and system files on your computer. The article is aptly titled:

"Answer Line: Create a Windows CD for PCs That Don't Have One" -- written by Lincoln Spector (http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,122487-page,1/article.html).

In addition to step by step instructions, the article has links to the 2 free software tools you will need to create a Windows XP Recovery/Installation CD.

Answer 4

You can try contacting the manufacturer of your PC. Depending on how long you have had it they may or may not be very helpful.

If you have your Security Key (should be a way to view it on your computer if your windows still works), and you know the release of your Win XP you could copy a friends disc and just reference your security key when you use it.

Barring that you are probably stuck buying the dang thing again. Microsoft is notorious for not replacing any software that is lost or damaged, they won't help you.

Answer 5

Some computers come with a recovery program that has all the software available for a system recovery or system restore in the ms config. You will have to download backup or recovery disks in order to have a hardcopy. If you've already lost the program I suggest you notify microsoft or the computer manufacturer for help.

Answer 6

Your PC should have came with a backup disc of everything, not just Windows XP.

Mine says "eMachines Setup Disc"

It has my drivers, operating system, and all the programs that were preinstalled on my PC.

If you did not get one with your PC, you can try calling the brand you purchased. I'm not sure if they will send you one for free, but they may be able to help you obtain one.

Answer 7

when you first set up your pc it should have given you the option to make recovery media if you didnt now you have to contact the manufacturer to get the discs or restart the pc and tap either the f10 or f11 key depending on the brand

Answer 8

well they usually don't come with a backup disc (or OS discs!). Sometimes you can find some sites online that'll help. Best bet would be to find someone who has one. Good luck

Answer 9

it's probably already on your disc on a separate partition. should have paid Dell the extra 10 bucks, anyway any competent IT should be able to retrieve the master copy.

Answer 10

check your restore sector for an ability to make a backup disc. usually theres a program for it but the manufacturers dont publicize it as they want to sell you additional discs.