What options do I have, if any....
2007-05-15 07:51:39 · 7 answers · asked by Heather H 3 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Desktops
Sadly hard drive is already formatted, as I thought I knew where the code was :(
2007-05-15 08:12:53 · update #1
If you have not formatted your HD yet, there is a way that you can save the current data so you do not have to activate the Window installation. I don't have it now but I have the info available by tommorow if you want it.
Here is the procedure:
Backup your activation files:
1. Open Windows explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\System32
2. Copy the files Wpa.dbl and Wpa.bak to another media floppy, CD-R or another hard drive (if you have more than one installed). A thumb drive works great at this point.
Now you can reformat your drive and reinstall Windows XP.
At the end of the installation, when Windows asks you to activate your product, decline and do not activate. (You will have 30 days to activate).
Restore your activation files
Restart your system, and as your system boots up press F8 to access the boot options (Windows Advanced Options)
From the menu options select to start Windows in safe mode (minimal)
After Windows loads in safe mode, open Windows explorer and navigate back to C:\Windows\System32
If you find the files Wpa.dbl and Wpa.bak in this folder, rename the files to something like Wpa.dbl.old and Wps.bak.old
Copy your original Wpa.dbl and Wpa.bak from the CD, thumb drive or floppy back to C:\Windows\System32
Restart Windows
You should now have a clean and activated Windows XP!
2007-05-15 08:11:56 · answer #1 · answered by angelo r 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your computer came with XP installed, then check the side/back or bottom of the case. There should be a Windows Registration Key stuck to it somewhere.
If you bought XP separately, then check the box/jewel case that the CD came in. The stick is probably still on that box/case and hasn't been put on the computer.
If you just can't find the sticker at all, call Microsoft BEFORE you format. The key can be found in your software settings and they can walk you through how to get that so you can write it down BEFORE you format the hard drive.
2007-05-15 07:57:21 · answer #2 · answered by spl 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you could try calling Microsoft's support. I had to do that once or twice before with Win98SE, and they gave me a code that would let Windows install, but I think it limited some of the online support features. Depending on your system (did you buy the computer with Windows already installed, or is this an upgrade?) they might ask some questions about where you purchased your copy and when, the manufacture's code on the box (if it came installed on your system), etc.
2007-05-15 07:59:15 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You don't need an activation code to install XP. If you're missing your product code then that's another story. You need to find it or buy a new copy of XP..
2007-05-15 07:56:09 · answer #4 · answered by zbalat 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
your windows license number would usually be on your computer case somewhere, if it is not there, then maybe your windows xp is a retail version, if so, it is on the booklet that your cd is in. If you do not have either, then sorry to say, your only option is to purchase a new XP license
2007-05-15 07:55:48 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yeah, without the code your out of luck. Have to buy a new liscense. I think you can buy just the code on ebay for about $70. They can just email it to you and send you the actual sticker later. That way your not out of commission for a week.
2007-05-15 07:55:46 · answer #6 · answered by Eric A 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
None, unless you have the sticker on the side of your computer case.
2007-05-15 07:54:21 · answer #7 · answered by Cupcake 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋