Reinstalling windows

[Guest]

My wifes computer needs to have windows xp reinstalled or at least using the
disc to repair the operating system. However, she has lost the disc for her
computer. I have an identical copy of windows xp which i got with my
computer. Can i use that disc to repair her computer?

 

[Ron Martell]

My wifes computer needs to have windows xp reinstalled or at least using the
disc to repair the operating system. However, she has lost the disc for her
computer. I have an identical copy of windows xp which i got with my
computer. Can i use that disc to repair her computer?

Only if the disk is absolutely identical to the one that came with her
computer in all aspects of:
- Windows Edition (Home, Pro, Tablet PC, Media Center)
- Windows Version (Retail Upgrade, Retail Full Install, Volume
License, OEM, Academic, etc etc).
- Language (English, Spanish, French, etc.)

One additional caveat with regard to OEM versions. If the OEM CD has
the name or logo of the computer manufacturer on it then it is likely
a BIOS Locked or at least a highly customized version and therefore
will not work on a computer from a different manufacturer.

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP (1997 - 2008)
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca

"Anyone who thinks that they are too small to make a difference
has never been in bed with a mosquito."

 

[David B.]

Without more info we can't say. Are these 2 PC's the same make and model?
OEM (Dell, HP, etc)? Is your disc a recovery disk or an actual OEM CD?