Windows XP CD-KEY not working

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jason
  • Start date Start date
J

Jason

I reformated and when it prompted me to enter the cd-key,
the one for my computer did not work. I also tried a
friend's spare key and even a generated key I got from
microsoft's tech support but it said invalid for all of
them. How do I install windows xp pro? I am using a
friend's copy of XP Professional, as I do not have my
reinstallation CD that came with my computer. Could that
be the problem?
 
Q. "I am using a friend's copy of XP Professional, as I do
not have my reinstallation CD that came with my computer.
Could that be the problem?"

A. Yes, that is the problem. The Product Key that came with
your computer will only work with your computer manufacturer's
prescribed recovery method. Contact your computer manufacturer
and request a Windows XP recovery or reinstallation CD designed
for your specific computer.

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User

Be Smart! Protect Your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/protect/default.aspx

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:

| I reformated and when it prompted me to enter the cd-key,
| the one for my computer did not work. I also tried a
| friend's spare key and even a generated key I got from
| microsoft's tech support but it said invalid for all of
| them. How do I install windows xp pro? I am using a
| friend's copy of XP Professional, as I do not have my
| reinstallation CD that came with my computer. Could that
| be the problem?
 
cool thanks. I figured the reinstallation CDs that come
with computers are generic OS cd's. Thanks again.
 
Jason,

No, the CDs that come with branded computers (including "recovery CDs") are
OEM and the PKs for Retail product will NOT work with OEM CDs and vice
versa.
 
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