Copying over XP Pro

[Guest]

I was given a computer and it has XP Pro on it. The problem is that when I
downloaded the validation tool it stated that the product key wasn't valid.
I trust the person who gave it to me but I don't want the hassle. I restored
my pc to an earlier point to remove the validation tool. My question is that
I have my XP Home Edition w/ SP2 upgrade and I was wondering if I could just
do a new install over the XP Pro? I know my product key is good my only
worry is will it work. Anyone know if this is possible please let me know.
Thanks

 

[Og]

I was given a computer and it has XP Pro on it. The problem is that when I
downloaded the validation tool it stated that the product key wasn't
valid.
I trust the person who gave it to me but I don't want the hassle. I
restored
my pc to an earlier point to remove the validation tool. My question is
that
I have my XP Home Edition w/ SP2 upgrade and I was wondering if I could
just
do a new install over the XP Pro? I know my product key is good my only
worry is will it work. Anyone know if this is possible please let me
know.
Thanks

No. You _can not_ 'downgrade' from XP Pro to XP Home.
You will have to perform a clean install of XP Home.

Steve

 

[Plato]

I was given a computer and it has XP Pro on it. The problem is that when I

Best bet is to wipe the hard drive, buy a retail copy on CD of the OS
you want to use, and install it totally fresh.

 

[Ken Blake, MVP]

My question is that
I have my XP Home Edition w/ SP2 upgrade and I was wondering if I could just
do a new install over the XP Pro? I know my product key is good my only
worry is will it work. Anyone know if this is possible please let me know.

It is *not* possible. Downgrades are not supported.

 

[Guest]

When I put the cd in it checked the compatability and stated it was not
compatable. Is there a way to do a clean install besides just running the
cd? Do I have to remove the XP Pro prior to this? Any help with this would
be appreciated. If it is not possible I will have to purchase Windosw 98,
98 SE, or Windows Me to upgrade it to XP Home.

 

[Uncle Grumpy]

Do I have to remove the XP Pro prior to this?

Yep.

 

[Gary S. Terhune]

You have to reformat and clean install the Home version, and since you don't
have any earlier version on which to base the Upgrade, you'll need to obtain
one.