Bootleg Windows XP Wish to install vaild copy..

I recently had a computer built by a local computer shop...I attempted to update Windows XP and got a message that my Windows XP was a bootleg copy....I called the guy who built it and he confirmed it was bootleg and told me
not to update and I would be fine...I do not like the idea of having an invalid
operating system..The computer builder refused to install a valid copy even if I paid for it..he turned out to be not very helpful..
How would I go about installing a certified copy of Windows XP?
I can purchase the software on eBay with a valid registration key for about 130 bucks ...Can I simply install it over the bootleg or must I remove everything and start fresh?...I am a novice and do not wish to attempt something without some direction..Thanks for any help
Bill

 

Read the following. If you paid for XP then the builder should be reported.

Get genuine: How can I take advantage of the Microsoft genuine Windows offer?

 

I don't want to turn the guy in but I don't like what he did...he promised me an AMD 64 x 2 processor and I ended up with an AMD 3200+..and now I find out that the software is bootleg...plus the bios of the motherboard is incapable of being overclocked....he must have seen me coming and knew I was a novice.
I just won't go back there but I don't want to rat him out..
Folks like that eventually get whats coming to them anyway
I know lots of people and will spread the word..
I guess the only solution is to pay for the genuine upgrade.
and buy a new processor..
Will I have to reinstall all my other software after the genuine upgrade?
Bill

 

I agree. Report this guy. Think of how many other people you might save from having the headache you have now.

 

The Microsoft Knowledge Base article, How to change the product key at the time of activation should help.

The new product key will work only if the currently installed XP is the same as the newly purchased one...both must be Home or both must be Pro and both must be OEM or both must be retail.

 

Microsoft Get Genuine Kit

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/getgenuinekit/default.mspx

Can be purchased here.
http://shopper.cnet.com/windows/microsoft-get-genuine-kit/4014-3672_9-32110226.html

 

There are actually a couple few ways to go. The Get Genuine kit available from Microsoft will permit one to change keys and become legitimate but you will still need a slipstreamed SP2 Volume User licensed CD to run sfc /scannow or other functions if they become necessary at a later date. (assuming the builder used a Volume User licensed version of XP Pro). This procedure is pretty quick and will leave everything else intact. (This assumes key change per instructions only) Secondly, you can buy an OEM version and do a repair install and use the new OEM key. (I'd call this the best method because your CD will match the files on your system should future repairs be required). The downside is you will need to redo all of your post SP2 updates (over 80) and you may break your current AV installation. I guess the last alternative is what TonyT suggested, that being a clean installation.

You should report the guy but first, I'd give him a chance to fix it himself providing you with the original processor he promised and a nice legitimate CD and MS COA. If he's not agreeable - report him.

Don't get your hopes up that Microsoft is going to give you anything more than a little sympathy. Getting a free OS isn't going to happen.

You may also want to consider Vista as an option since you are at a crossroad so to speak.

Good Luck

 

My father in law has a desktop that has a pirated copy of XP corporate from a now defunct computer store.
I orderd the get genuine pac tonight and will attempt to install Tuesday Evening.

The kit comes with a COA, and media (W/SP2) and allows you full support from Microsoft.