How to check if legit XP already installed

[groupie]

Hi,
Just bought a legit copy of XP Home but I'm suspicious that the box
had been opened before I got it and the software installed on someone
else PC.
Without installing the software on my own PC, is there a way to check
first if the copy has been already used?

Thanks.

 

[Fred]

Just bought a legit copy of XP Home but I'm suspicious that the box
had been opened before I got it and the software installed on someone
else PC.
Without installing the software on my own PC, is there a way to check
first if the copy has been already used?

No

 

[Leonard Grey]

You could call Microsoft and ask them if the product key is legitimate.
But if you have serious concerns, and the box isn't opened, exchange
your install CD for another.

 

[Anteaus]

The CD is not what matters, so long as it's a pressed Microsoft-logo CD and
not a CD-R you're OK. You can tell CD-Rs by the darker active surface. All
CDs of a given type (OEM/Retail/Volume License) and SP-level are identical.

The issue is that if the key has been used it may not activate a second
time. This can normally be overcome by calling the activation hotline and
explaining the situation. Even then you should not need to reinstall, you can
change the pirated key for a legit one post-install.

 

[Mick Murphy]

http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/faq.aspx

FAQs about genuine software.