Re-Install Issue

[Guest]

I've just replaced a faulty hard drive in a second-hand laptop, which sadly
never came with it's XP Pro install CD-ROM. On the underside of the laptop,
is the Certificate of Authority sticker, with the XP Pro Serial number. I
tried using this serial number with another XP Pro install CD-ROM, but it
returns the message 'The Product ID you entered is not valid'. How do I
re-install the OS with the serial number of the laptop? Thanks in advance,
Neal.

 

[Shenan Stanley]

I've just replaced a faulty hard drive in a second-hand laptop,
which sadly never came with it's XP Pro install CD-ROM. On the
underside of the laptop, is the Certificate of Authority sticker,
with the XP Pro Serial number. I tried using this serial number
with another XP Pro install CD-ROM, but it returns the message 'The
Product ID you entered is not valid'. How do I re-install the OS
with the serial number of the laptop? Thanks in advance, Neal.

It *may* work if you can get your hands on a generic OEM CD.
Your best bet is to call the manufacturer (those who sold it to you) of the
laptop.

(Not all XP cds are the same.. OEM, BIOS-locked OEM, Reatil, Upgrade, MSDN,
etc..)