RE-Installing XP PRO

A local computer shop installed Windows XP PRO on a friends PC but did not give him a disk or license (they did not charge for it either).

When I try to run updates it starts to install the Service Pack but says the product code is invalid.

I have contacted Microsoft etc but need to get this working.

If he buys XP PRO can the software be re-installed with the valid key that comes with it WITHOUT having to format the system and start again?

If so how?

Thanks

>>>Assuming<<< the copy is legal and maybe you just didn't get the right CD from the shop, there are ways to change the registration id - do a google search and you might find what you are looking for.

>>>Assuming<<<

Quote:

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Originally posted by ozrica
A local computer shop installed Windows XP PRO on a friends PC but did not give him a disk or license (they did not charge for it either).

When I try to run updates it starts to install the Service Pack but says the product code is invalid.

I have contacted Microsoft etc but need to get this working.

If he buys XP PRO can the software be re-installed with the valid key that comes with it WITHOUT having to format the system and start again?

If so how?

Thanks

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Don't let these guys bother you. What you need to do, as you stated, is get him a valid copy of the software, then, without the need to reinstall, change the product key. MS has offered these instructions:
How to Change the Product ID in Windows XP

With the new key, and properly activated Service Pack 1 should install correctly.

Quote:

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Originally posted by geoscomp
If you want to assume something is legal, when it cannot be legal, go ahead..If the customer has no COA containing the product ID, it is an illegal installation.

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Steady neddy ! .... Remember all that Generic keys business ? (maybe you never saw that thread so here's proof)

Have a look at this MS link

I do this all the time ... Customer - "Err I do have a valid license somewheres ...." - Me -"Where ?" - Customer - "Errrrrr .... I dunno." - Me - "Never mind... fixed for now ... put the real key in later"

Then follow the link Ya_know posted .....

BTW - you don't 'really' need valid software ... he has that(since it is all the same) but you do need a valid key ! (hopefully your own !!!):rolleyes: ;)

& edit

We've been through the 'ownership' business before .... All you need to be legal with your software is a proof of purchase from a valid re-seller .....

You can buy COA (Certificates of Authority) perfectly legally from folks seperately , but this isn't 'title' any more than possesion of an original cd ....

What do they do with mass installs ? - they don't send you 5,000 cds & COAs ... no they send you one & a receipt !

Thanks for everbody's input.

He has purchased XP PRO and we will be following the official Microsoft approach to input it.

Thanks a lot.