can I use another pc's XP disk for mine?

Question

I have a 98 gateway that use to have windows 98 installed in it. I payed someone to install XP. Now I have a bad virus and cant do a system restore. My friend bought a gateway lap top last year with XP and she got 4 XP disks with it for a reboot or somthing. Can I use them for my gateway tower?

Answer 1

IF you are just wanting to do a fresh XP install, then any XP should be fine. Just if/when it comes time to enter the XP procudt key just use the one you have for yours. You shouldn't have any issues, with it. There is a possibility that you do in which case just call Microsoft and tell them your re-installing XP on the same computer and they will make sure your key is validated on your computer so you can do updates.

Answer 2

I am not to familiar with puters-n-such. I do not see a problem with using a XP with your puter. Read the disk case, see if it is compatible with Gateway.
As to the virus...Did you do a "Free scan" from the Internet? If you did the virus is fictitious, bull$hit they "say" to scare you into buying their remedy for your problem. BEWARE all Internet free scans do this. As well you will get an icon in the lower right corner of your monitor warning you about the virus/infections, this you will NOT remove for free.
In regards to this virus after installation of Windows XP,
make sure the "fire wall" is in order and "on".
You should have no problems. You can also try Ad-Aware SE or AVG. They are free and I have been using them for 3+ years with no problems. ( www.adawarese.com www.avgfree.com try it, it's free)
Good luck,
Todd

Answer 3

No, I'm sorry to report, that restore set will only work with his computer. When you had XP installed you should have received an XP CD. I would go back and ask the people who did the work for the installation CD that they should have handed to you when you picked up your PC.