make xp pro legit without reinstalling all software?

[jb]

Hi,
I have an illegal version of xp pro on a dell laptop that I want to make
legitimate. However, I don't want to reinstall all of my software if
I can help it.

I've found some xp pro cds for sale, one with the software and one with
the license only:
Microsoft Windows XP Pro w/ SP1a (OEM-DSP)
Microsoft Windows XP Pro - OEM License Only, No CD

If I were to buy one of these, would I be able to make my currently
installed xp pro legal without having to wipe out the hard drive and
start from scratch? Could I somehow use the license key from one of
these cds with my currently installed xp setup?

Thanks in advance,
Jim

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

Do not purchase "Microsoft Windows XP Pro - OEM License Only, No CD"!
It will not work with your illegitimate Windows XP CD!

You'll need to purchase "Microsoft Windows XP Pro w/ SP1a (OEM-DSP)".

Then you can perform a "Repair Install" using the legit Windows XP CD
and it's corresponding Product Key.

How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User

Be Smart! Protect Your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/protect/default.aspx

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:

| Hi,
| I have an illegal version of xp pro on a dell laptop that I want to make
| legitimate. However, I don't want to reinstall all of my software if
| I can help it.
|
| I've found some xp pro cds for sale, one with the software and one with
| the license only:
| Microsoft Windows XP Pro w/ SP1a (OEM-DSP)
| Microsoft Windows XP Pro - OEM License Only, No CD
|
| If I were to buy one of these, would I be able to make my currently
| installed xp pro legal without having to wipe out the hard drive and
| start from scratch? Could I somehow use the license key from one of
| these cds with my currently installed xp setup?
|
| Thanks in advance,
| Jim