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Reinstalling, will my XP key work?

Discussion in 'Windows XP' started by AndrewJRussell, 2007/07/18.

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  1. 2007/07/18
    AndrewJRussell

    AndrewJRussell Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hi guys,

    I have a slight problem, i have three pcs, one is a built system, one is a HP bought, and the third is a DELL.

    The only system i use is my built one, so i want to reinstall windows on this. The problem is, i dont have any OS install disks, as the HP is my sisters pc who has emigrated, and the DELL is my girlfriends who lost everything in the move.

    Is there anyway i can install a DELL/HP key with a fresh XP install disk? As i dont want to pay £10 to get a OS disk from the manufacturer or wait for delivery! As the built system is using a TIME computer windows key, and they went bust in the UK years ago..

    The keys for the DELL and HP are on the sticker on the bottom of the computer..
     
    Last edited: 2007/07/18
    AndrewJRussell,
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  2. 2007/07/18
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    Andrew

    I'm not following you :confused:
    Have you or have you not got an XP CD? It's not at all clear.

    If you have a retail copy of XP which is not installed on any other computer you have a key and no problems - boot from it, format and install.

    The HP and Dell keys are for OEM versions of XP specific to those computers and will not work on any other.

    You may be interested in this article .....

    I don't have an installation CD for Windows XP - what if I need one?
     
    PeteC,
    #2


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  4. 2007/07/18
    AndrewJRussell

    AndrewJRussell Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hi PeteC

    Sorry to be vague. I have a copy of a Windows XP, but it was made from a backup from an old image. Which it will not install with the two keys that i have, i know i have no backup images on the HP or Dell pc.
     
    AndrewJRussell,
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  5. 2007/07/18
    AndrewJRussell

    AndrewJRussell Inactive Thread Starter

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    Ok i found out how to get my Dell OEM key to work with a retail copy of XP.

    If you would like me to share this info, please let me know, as im unsure if it breaks any rules.
     
    AndrewJRussell,
    #4
  6. 2007/07/18
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    No thank you
     
    PeteC,
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  7. 2007/07/18
    AndrewJRussell

    AndrewJRussell Inactive Thread Starter

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    Ok, no problem, i will message you the weblink and you can decide, ive read it, and its not illegal.

    Thanks though.
     
    AndrewJRussell,
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  8. 2007/07/18
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    Ok
     
    PeteC,
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  9. 2007/07/19
    Arie

    Arie Administrator Administrator Staff

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    :confused:

    You used a DELL OEM CD key on a custom build machine (whith XP Retail)?

    That's a violation of the EULA.
     
    Arie,
    #8
  10. 2007/07/19
    AndrewJRussell

    AndrewJRussell Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hi Arie,

    Not sure on EULA, i dont read them, but i own three XP keys, but none will work without the manufacturer disk. So i've found a way around it.

    Since i own the keys, i dont see why its a problem i use a different disk and modify it, im still end up with the same product i paid for!
     
    AndrewJRussell,
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  11. 2007/07/19
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    Andrew

    You don't own the software - you bought the right to use it on one computer - and one computer only, in line with the EULA to which you agreed.
     
    PeteC,
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  12. 2007/07/19
    AndrewJRussell

    AndrewJRussell Inactive Thread Starter

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    I dont use the Dell computer no more, its used as a Linux server, so therefore, i can use the key on my home built system!

    :)
     
    AndrewJRussell,
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  13. 2007/07/19
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    Sorry, Andrew, you're wrong again. The copy of XP which came with the Dell was an OEM version licenced to Dell for use on that Dell computer only. To use it on another computer is illegal - period.
     
    PeteC,
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  14. 2007/07/19
    AndrewJRussell

    AndrewJRussell Inactive Thread Starter

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    We'll agree to disagree, as far as im concerned i own the right to three copies for windows xp.

    :p
     
    AndrewJRussell,
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