formating drive?

Question

If I format my drive, will I be able to use my xp reinstallation cd I got with my computer for the drive. I called Microsoft and they told me that since the hard drive I originally got with the computer is not on the comp anymore that the xp software is no longer genuine that I have on the new drive! Is there any way around giving the already multi billion dollar company another 100 bucks for the software I already paid for? lol!

Answer 1

Oddly enough, Microsoft are correct. The license you need is more than 100 bucks - more like 235! This is the License you now need to buy:

http://www.ebuyer.com/UK/product/65801

And no, there isn't a legal way around it. You can put your old disk back too - thats fine.

Remember that you haven't already paid for the software - the software belongs to Microsoft. You bought an OEM License to use Microsoft's software. Its a bit like renting a car. That license expired when you changed the hard disk drive - thats why the OEM license you were sold with the computer was so cheap. Read your EULA for more information.

However, once you have bought the Full License above, you can change the disk drive (or any other component) as often as you like! Woohoo!

Remember that you can always use other operating systems. For example, the upgrade to Linux is FREE - plus you can install it on as many machines as you like, and add/remove components whenever you want!

http://www.kubuntu.org/

Answer 2

As long as the old drive is not being used in another computer then you are perfectly in your rights to install the copy of windows you own onto your new drive. There will be no legal ramifications for you if you procede.

Answer 3

Yes, just reinstall the software.... If it is the installation CD that came with your computer, you're fine.

Answer 4

Yea, as long as you got the disk... you can format your drive but make sure the disk works.

Answer 5

is there a keycode on the pc? if so use it and forget what microsoft said