Pirate copy of XP

[CrazeeTown]

Hey guys. First post and I apologise if there's a similar post floating around somewhere, but I just need an answer quick.

Anyway, I found out I was running on a pirated copy of Windows XP so I've not been able to install any Service Packs. So I just puchased a legal copy from Amazon - although I probably should have thought it over better beforehand because I purchased this:

Windows XP Home Upgrade

And my question is, will it allow me to install XP considering what I currently have on my computer is a pirate copy? Or should I buy the regular edition of XP (not upgrade)? I just don't want to end up getting this and trying to install just to be told that I'm not allowed to for whatever reason because then Amazon probably won't allow me to return it and it'll be a complete waste of £100.

Thanks.

Edited May 11, 2006 by CrazeeTown

[Wehttam]

if it were me; i would send it back, get the full version, then do a repair, and put in the new code. Im pretty sure it would work. Unless...u have an older version of windows (2k, 9x) then u can do a clean install of XP. U shouldnt have to install the older OS, i think it'll just ask for the old OS's disc durring installation.

hope this helps

[CrazeeTown]

I have some CDs which I think can be used to install Windows ME on my system - however, they're not official Microsoft CDs as the computer came with ME but without any discs to install it from so we had to send away for some replacement ones and got five CDs. I have no idea what they all do, there are no instructions. I don't know if I'd want to risk putting ME back on to my system and then using the upgrade to install XP, do you think this could work? It would be cheaper (c'mon, I'm only 17, I can't afford loads of money ). But I know it would take a lot of time not to mention I'd risk losing everything I have saved on the computer.

Will the upgrade I bought actually provide me with a new valid product number or do I already need to have one?

[Andromeda43]

The upgrade should work just fine....but yes it's going to ask you for the 25 digit KEY.

It did come with the package, didn't it? That's all it will ask you for.

I got from 98/SE to XP-Pro with an upgrade CD. Worked fine. It was a huge leap, but went off without a hitch.

I cleaned up my system and did a Ghost Image of C: before I started. You should do that too, if you want to keep your data and be able to go back to where you are now in case of problems.

I've still got that Ghost Image of C: with my old 98/SE on it, around here somewhere.

I did have to change my sound card, modem and scanner because XP didn't like them.

good luck,

Andromeda43

[IcemanND]

if you are goinf to do a clean install you don't need to install a previous os just need to have a cd. Do the install on a clean drive and it will ask you for the qualifying upgrade media to make sure you quilify for the upgrade.

But you should be able to do a repair with the upgrade cd and that process will replace teh cd key.

But If I were you I'd get a full version or a copy of the same version you already have.

[Aegis]

I think Microsoft allows you to trade it in if you can prove that you bought it with the best intentions in mind.

[CrazeeTown]

Thanks for the help, everyone.

I figured the best thing to do to be on the safe side would just be to order the full version so I've already ordered that and I'll send the upgrade back when I get it. Just hope it works now.

[RJARRRPCGP]

The upgrade should work just fine....but yes it's going to ask you for the 25 digit KEY.

It did come with the package, didn't it? That's all it will ask you for.

I got from 98/SE to XP-Pro with an upgrade CD. Worked fine. It was a huge leap, but went off without a hitch.

I cleaned up my system and did a Ghost Image of C: before I started. You should do that too, if you want to keep your data and be able to go back to where you are now in case of problems.

I've still got that Ghost Image of C: with my old 98/SE on it, around here somewhere.

I did have to change my sound card, modem and scanner because XP didn't like them.

good luck,

Andromeda43

All versions of Windows starting with Windows 2000 require entry of a 25-digit product key. This isn't related to Windows Product Activation, which only exists in Windows XP 2002 and later nor has it have to do with an "upgrade" version of Windows. The "full" version requires a 25-digit product key, too!! That's printed on the package or CD.

[janus zeal]

if you have the serial number from the upgrade cd you bought you can just put the new number in your old install of windows. this will allow you to install service packs and pass windows validation.

(this might not work however because its an upgrade serial...but its worth a try before you spend money on a new cd)

this program should allow you to change it, just click the "options" menu, and click "change windows key"

if that doesnt work, then... http://www.petri.co.il/change_the_serial_in_windows_xp.htm

Edited May 14, 2006 by janus zeal