can i reinstall xp over an older copy that fails validation?

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Guest

My xp fails the validation test. It is sp1. can i reinstall a newer version
with sp2 over the top of my existing installation without losing my programs?
if so, how is it done? thanks.
 
Are you talking about MS's validation test you must do before downloading
their updates? If so, you should contact MS directly about this since you
may have received an illegal copy of XP from somebody.
 
Oh, and you can do this. Boot with the Windows CD, when you get to the
option, do a repair Windows install. Or you can choose to install Windows in
a different directory, however you programs probably won't work.
 
yes, it fails the ms validation test. I bought this computer used so i dont
have much to complain about to ms. however, I have a valid copy of the o/s
here and would like to install it over the top of the "invalid" o/s thats on
there now. However, I don't want to lose all my programs in the process.
can this be done?
 
The repair install should only copy Windows file back over the original OS
install. It shoudn't affect your programs.
 
Hi,

Boot the system normally, insert the CD. Start the installer, choose and 'in
place upgrade'. Your files, settings, and programs should all remain intact.

--
Best of Luck,

Rick Rogers, aka "Nutcase" - Microsoft MVP

Associate Expert - WindowsXP Expert Zone

Windows help - www.rickrogers.org
 
In
captainnice said:
My xp fails the validation test. It is sp1. can i reinstall a newer
version with sp2 over the top of my existing installation without
losing my programs? if so, how is it done? thanks.
Click to expand...

Yes, do a repair install. You can get the details from the link below.
Repair Install
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm
--
Michael Stevens MS-MVP XP
(e-mail address removed)
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com
For a better newsgroup experience. Setup a newsreader.
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/outlookexpressnewreader.htm
 
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