Installing Windows XP? please help asap!?

Question

i have a dell computer and a compaq computer. i have a reinstallation cd for the microsoft windows xp home edition that i used and received from dell when i first got the computer. is it possible for me to use that cd to install windows xp on my compaq computer also or is it specifically a dell cd and/or a reinstallation cd and not an installation cd?

if i do install on a compaq would i and could i get into trouble or will it be fine?

Answer 1

The cd will also work on the Compaq computer, as Dell XP cds do not come with "dell" specific drivers on them, which is why Dell also includes a seperate Drivers and Apps CD.

While you CAN install the dell xp on the compaq, windows will know its installed on 1 or more computers, and it may not activate unless you call microsoft support and tell them what you are doing.

Of course if you say you are installing it on 2 computers, they will not help you activate windows. However if the dell is dead and you want to put the dell xp on the compaq, you can call microsoft when you get to the activation window, and tell them your dell got a virus and you are reformatting. They will then help you activate it by giving you a code...

Other than that, it is illegal to have 1 copy on 2 or more computers... But I can tell you, tons of people do it.

Answer 2

I am very sorry to inform you that Compaq is notorius for only allowing proprietary OS software on the machine. I have had the same problem in the past and the only way around it was to get a copy of a Compaq installation CD. The chipset on the motherboard from Compaq is the thing that drives this insanity. I know because I revived an older Compaq, exchanging the RAM, Hard-Drive, Fan, and Cables thinking my Dell CD would do the trick, only to realize after wiping the OS off the HardDrive that Compaq did this. The only other hope you have is to get a (rare) copy of the OS that is non-computer specific and used to flash multiple computers for places like calling centers. I have included a link that should help you locate a disc. -- good luck.

Answer 3

it is only a dell compatible CD. It usually will look for a dell specific signature and prevent you from installing on a non-dell computer. best bet is to find someone with OEM CD or compaq brand CD. When you install, you can still use the CD key on the sticker on the case of your PC, making it a legal and legit version..

Answer 4

Try it and see. If it is an istallation disk it won't know what type of computer it is, if it is not then it will either not work or produce an error message. When it comes to put in the code if it accepted by microsoft then you're OK., but if they don't then you're not.

However, as you have two computers have you ever considered a linux system. You can obtain the latest distro from the newsagents, by buying a Linux magazine with a free dvd, much cheaper than Microsoft and as effective. If perchance you don't get on with this month's distro there will be another one out next month

Answer 5

Your Windows XP CD will work with both computers. Just remember, it is against Microsoft's end-user license agreement to install one copy of Windows XP on two computers. Be that as it may, you will not have a problem setting it up.

Answer 6

Yes you can install the windows xp home edition on your compaq computer.

Answer 7

Yeah it'll work, and your Dell should have a windows xp key code on the back of the case somewhere, so use that when you're installing XP on your other pc.

Answer 8

no count if it is an entire set up on hte Compaq, then they key won't tournament. in case you attempt to apply the main for the Dell then it won't turn on simply by fact is already in use. If doing a fix of the Compaq, may well be waiting to get sone of the .bin and .dll to load and the main from the Compaq to artwork if required. in case you're attempting to do an entire reload, it is recommended to touch Compaq help and get a CD at a decreased cost.