Easiest way to fix a pirate copy of XP pro

[gau17]

What's the best and easiest way to fix a pirated copy of XP pro. I don't want to have to refomat the HD and perform a clean install.

I have a legit copy w/ serial keys.

 

[vacunita]

You'll need to re-activate the copy of windows with the correct CD key.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/328874

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Ignorance is not necessarily Bliss, case in point:
Unknown has caused an Unknown Error on Unknown and must be shutdown to prevent damage to Unknown.

 

[se2000]

There are programs that let you replace the key. I think keyfinder is such a program. You'll need a key to match the version of XP installed.

 

[linney]

You'll need the "full retail version" of Windows XP Pro to perform a "repair install".

OEM's only go in as a clean install normally.

Should you purchase an OEM license version of XP?
faq779-4004

To be honest I'm not sure what would happen if you tried a repair install using an OEM on a separate , different version of Windows?

http://ask-leo.com/how_do_i_legalize_my_windows_xp_installation.html

This mentions a program to just swap Product Keys.
Undo Upgrade?
thread779-934075

Changing your Product ID after installation
faq779-4300

HOW TO: Change the Product Key at the Time of Activation

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;810892&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

You could try Microsoft Suport and see what they say is the best option?

 

[smah]

The easist way is to run the online validation tool.

http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/

After, it fails, you'll have a few options. It's not as obvious as it should be, but if you have a valid license availble for use, there's an option for 'I already have a new disk' or something similar. When that step is completed, you are taken to a utility that will allow you to change the key.

 

[smah]

I should have added that after failed validation, you'll have the option to immediately purchase a new license if needed.

 

[gau17]

Thanks smah

do you know if it will still take if of I have an OEM key? I don't know if the current one was installed using a retail copy.

 

[Trevoke]

Just call them and they'll give you an activation for the key you have.

Tao Te Ching Discussions : Chapter 6 (includes links to previous chapters)

 

[smah]

I don't think that I can answer that question; and I'm not sure if I even understand it correctly. OEM licenses are ied to the original equipment on which they were installed. That being said, I know of a case where a OEM license key was successfully applied to a non-valid windows installation using the utility mentioned above.