Pirated XP, need to make it legit

[Third Planet Main]

Hi -

I just bought a computer secondhand that had XP Pro (I think). The
problem is that I wanted to install SP1, but it said my computer had a
pirated copy of the software. How can I get my license legally without
having to reinstall the OS? Or is that even possible.

best -

chris

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Third Planet
www.thethirdplanet.com
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3631 Pacific Coast Highway
Torrance CA 90505 USA
310 791-6227

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Chris;
Buy Windows XP pro and perform a Repair Installation using the new
Product Key and CD:
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/repaxp.htm

Also see:
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/invalpk.htm

 

[Rock]

Chris, expecially given your system has a pirated copy of XP, it would
be wise to do a fresh install and wipe the drive clean. You don't know
what other nasties might be on there, child porn, trojans, spyware, etc.
Get a legit copy and on the installation choose a new install, delete
the old partition and create a new one.

 

[Alex Nichol]

I just bought a computer secondhand that had XP Pro (I think). The
problem is that I wanted to install SP1, but it said my computer had a
pirated copy of the software. How can I get my license legally without
having to reinstall the OS? Or is that even possible.

You will have to go and buy a retail Full copy of XP Pro. (make sure
which version it is - Home or pro - at Control Panel - System) Then do
a repair reinstall: Set the BIOS to boot CD before Hard disk, then
boot the XP CD, start Setup (do not take 'Repair' at this stage), then
after the license agreement take 'Repair Installation'. You will on the
way be asked for the Product Key - give the one that comes with the new
CD (and be very careful to keep that safe)

This will retain your existing software installations and most
settings. But Updates will have to be run again,
This will then probably only boot Safe mode until you have activated it
by phoning in. Alternatively you could do a New install, and when it
asks where hit ESC to delete the present partition, make a new one and
start over completely

A CD you buy now will include SP1, but It is important to activate the
basic XP Firewall before you ever connect to the net to get the
patches, so as to be protected against things like the BLAST worm.

Always back up essential data before doing any major system operation
like this, if you are still in a position to do so