Re Installing XP Pro help

[GaryLog]

I could really use some help with this,
I received what was supposed to be a new copy of Windows XP Pro SP2, it
was not quite new as described, I still needed to install the OS system
that weekend, which I did without any problems. The person that I
bought the OS from wanted this copy back in exchange for a new CD and a
new COA. I now have the New CD and COA and I want to be able to use the
new COA and registration number with this PC since I am going to send
the other copy of the OS back.

I have installed alot of PC's with WIndows XP Pro as a new install and
as a repair, but I have never installed one trying to save all the
files so they stay intact.

Now comes the problem, I have installed alot of software on this PC and
I do not want to have to reformat and loss all of this software and
files that I have installed now, so I cannot reformat this drive to
install the new Windows XP Pro.

How do I or what is the procedure to install this new OS in order to
get the updated COA and liciense for the new software on this PC,
without losing any files and without reformating. Microsoft says you
can do this by telling the setup to keep the files intact. But they
will not give me anymore info than that.

Please give me some instructions on the way to accomplish this,
Thanks
GaryLog

 

[jg]

try update mode
after the PC in normal manner and logion the admin. id,
insert new cd,
it should prompt you for install/update...etc if auto-play in on
-if not, use explorer to the cd, and run setup, be sure to choose update


What ever you do , don't format your hard drive

 

[GaryLog]

I thought that I would let everybody know that if they have the same
issue as I did there is a tool on the Microsoft website called
"KeyUpdate Tool" that will let you change the Product key without as
issues like reformatting, all you do is download the program, install
it, run it and change the key code, it was that simple.