upgrading from xp home to xp pro

[Guest]

We bought a new HP pc with xp home preinstalled, then purchased a copy of xp
pro to install. We're getting an "ivalid product id" error, even though I'm
sure it's typed correctly (doesn't have 0 or O issues or num lock or cap lock
or anything like that), I'm using the product ID from the new version, it's
not pirated software, I've disabled Norton internet security (at least every
setting I could disable, I did disable, is it really disabled??).
All this was purchased last week, so I assume it's all up-to-date?

 

[Rich Barry]

If you have purchased an OEM copy of Windows XP Home or Pro (this is the
type normally shipped with new computers, without retail packaging) this
cannot be used to upgrade any previous version of Windows. You would need to
perform a clean install of the new operating system.

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Are you using the Product Key that came with the Windows XP Pro CD?
Look very close, S-5, B-8, I-1 and others look alike.
Have someone else try, sometimes another set of eyes and fingers can get it
right.
The Product Key is not case sensitive.

Was the package sealed when you bought it?
Otherwise return it to the seller for exchange.

 

[Guest]

Yes we've both (me and husband) have each tried several times, and the
numbers/letters are very clearly written, there are both G and 6 and they are
very different looking from each other, no Bs or 8s in the key.
It's a sealed copy we bought from compusa
yes it's the product key from the software we want to install, not the
software that's already installed on the machine.
It says on the box
UPGRADE, for users of Win98, Win98SE, etc., etc.,
Includes SP2 with Advanced Security
Professional services kit....
We can't upgrade an OEM installed on the PC? why would that be? Doesn't
make sense.

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Rich was meaning the Windows XP Pro needs to be retail and not OEM since OEM
is incapable of performing an upgrade operation.
But the issue you are having is not the same as if you were attempting an
upgrade with an OEM Windows XP Pro.

You can also contact Microsoft for Installation support:
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?ln=en-us&x=10&y=11&prid=3518&gprid=185522
They will be able to verify the key is correct.

--
Jupiter Jones [MVP]
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
http://www.dts-l.org

 

[Guest]

-I'd suggest you phone the activation helpline. Had quite a few cases
recently of valid IDs that don't work. If you can give them reasonable proof
it's new, non-OEM copy they give you a new serial.

You'll need to ask one of the local guys for the number, I'm in the UK.

 

[Guest]

Thanks, you've been a lot of help! ;-)
I've been going back and forth with the email support, and they've agreed to
send a new product ID code, since I gave them the old one the software came
with, and they also wanted the numbers off of the inside rim of the CD.
Hopefully that should do the trick.