gaz61 said:
Hi can someone tell me what i need to do, i recently bought a secondhand Pc
which i found to have had a counterfeit copy of Windows XP on it. I have
recently purchased a genuine copy and i was wondering how i can put the
genuine copy on so i can have all the Win updates and support from Microsoft
without having to totally wipe off the counterfeit copy and start all over
again and insert the new pid number. Thanks Gaz61
With second-hand computers, especially if acquired from strangers
but perhaps even if acquired from a family member, your wisest course
of action would probably be to format the hard drives and start fresh.
You don't want to get in trouble because the original owner may have
filled the hard drive with kiddie porn, or have problems because the
original owner downloaded/installed viruses or other malware.
If you are trying to install a WinXP Service Pack and getting the
following:
The Product Key Used to Install Windows Is Invalid
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q326904
You need to purchase and a _legitimate_ retail or OEM full license
of WinXP Pro to perform a repair (a.k.a. in-place upgrade) installation,
using the new CDs and Product Keys.
How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/directory/article.asp?ID=KB;EN-US;Q315341
You should also report whomever sold you this license to your local
law enforcement agencies; you've been defrauded.
--
Bruce Chambers
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