Windows XP Question 3

[NickCat11]

Hello All,

I was wondering if there is a winxp operating disk that I can use as a universal disk. What I mean is, if someone gives me their computer, say a Dell, that has a serial key on it for xp home, but they don't have the actual OS CD. Do they make a universal cd that I can just plug in the serial key from the Dell system? Someone told me a system builder XP disk could do this. Is this true? If so, do they make one for xp pro and home? And how do you get this special disk? Thanks

 

[bracadar]

For legality the full OEM license is the COA, the edge-to-edge CD (or from a Direct account, a restore CD), and the manual. If the end user has lost their CD they should first go back to where they purchased their system and request a replacement. You can inherit their license, but you have to use the original CD to reload the OS or get a new license. You can also use OPK which can install on any PC but you have to buy a new license for activation.

 

[vacunita]

Not quite:
The CD-Key is the actual License, and as long as the CD used is of the same type then it is valid and legal. you don;t really need the original media, just the original CD Key.

However, I'm not aware of any universal disc, that can install both XP Pro and Home in both OEM, and retail types.

Even then some OEM CD's are manufacturer specific which means a CD-Key belonging to a DELL machine will not work to install Windows on an HP, even if the disc is of the same type.



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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.

 

[lhuegele]

You must use the same type of CD as the type of license you have. IN this case it's probably an OEM license, which means you'll need the OEM CD. You should be able to get another CD from the manufacturer.

 

[bracadar]

Just think of it like this. If you get a $100.00 bill and write down the serial number(CD Key if you will) and lose you $100.00 can you expect to get a free replacement just because you have the serial number? Your CD key is the same. If you don't have the original software for that license you should buy a new licensed copy.

 

[vacunita]

Again no. As long as you have the CD Key, you can use a CD of the same type, to install. You do not and I repeat do not need to buy another License. You still have your License.

Its like having your car stolen, and then needing a new Drivers License because you bought a new car. Or the Reverse loosing your drivers license, and needing to buy a new car to get another Drivers License.

No you can still use your License in your new car. Or Your New Car with your Old License

Same Here. You can still use your CD key to install Windows as long as the CD is of the Same type as the Key.



----------------------------------
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.

 

[bracadar]

Either way you look at it you'll have to buy the replacement CD "of the same type" or you'll have to buy a new licensed CD. They are not going to give you a free replacement just because you have the license.

 

[NickCat11]

Thanks for replies. I appreciate all your help.

 

[vacunita]

Either way you look at it you'll have to buy the replacement CD "of the same type" or you'll have to buy a new licensed CD. They are not going to give you a free replacement just because you have the license.

What, you can't borrow one? Ask a Friend that as the same type of PC to use theirs? Heck I even have backup copies of my CD's. I really don't use the originals unless My backup suffered some problem.



----------------------------------
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.

 

[lhuegele]

That is correct, no PC manufacturer is going to give you a FREE replacment media - but the cost is usually ~ $20-$30 because you are only paying for the media. You already own the license.

If you have a friend that also has the same "type" of license, you can borrow their media and you will not be breaking any license agreement.

Best bet is to call the manufacturer and order replacement media.

Good luck,