Windows Genuine Advantage

I have an HP Vectra that until recently was running WinXP Pro. The Microsoft/HP COA, with 2 product keys, is pasted on the case, but I don’t have the Windows disk. For some unexplained reason the HD crashed and the mobo got fried. My friend is offering me a replacement Dell mobo and WinXP restoration CD, and I have a spare HD. If I put in the new parts, and install Windows from the Dell restoration disk, will I be legal? Or will Windows Genuine Advantage detect that something doesn’t match?

I don’t want to do anything illegal, but I also don’t want to have to buy a new O/S, especially since the one I originally bought is no longer usable.

 

No, you won't be able to get past the Genuine Advantage Nag unless you have an illegal crack. You could try to find a decommissioned Dell with a COA but technically, that would be illegal too. Does your friend have the XP key that originally went with the motherboard he is selling you? You could probably sweet talk your way through things with that key.

 

Thanks. Looks like it's time to check ebay for a used computer w/legal WinXP.

 

Rockster... a little more education on licensing for me, please? If his friend is no longer using the license and removes it from the original computer, why couldn't he use it?

<hasn't learned enough about Genuine Advantage yet>

 

I have no arguement with Arie's comments above and that is the official Microsoft policy as stated. I will however add that Microsoft can be a very understanding and accomodating company provided that one is cordial, diplomatic and not confrontational with regard to these situations.

 

be careful about buying win xp pro at cheap prices on ebay. i just last week got burned. everything looked fine,came sealed,had COA. the installation and activation went fine. when i visited windows update,a validation program was slipped in. in fact,it was voluntary. i thought nothing of it. a minute later,i received a message i might be a victim of piracy or counterfeit software. i could not get updates. if the program appers like a book and not a box,STAY AWAY FROM IT! it said on package FOR DISTRIBUTION ONLY WITH NEW PC.