XP Activation

[Guest]

PC came with XP pre-installed. Due to a very serious virus attack I was
forced to repair the OS but unfortunately the users disk can't be found.

Last resort - I ran my disk but tried the users registration code (that
didn't work obviously) but now I need to activate XP. What problems do I face?

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

You need his CD or a CD identical to it, a generic OEM CD may also work.
The Product Key on the computer will not work with a CD of a different type
such as your CD.
Contact the computer manufacturer for replacement CD

 

[Galen]

In

PC came with XP pre-installed. Due to a very serious virus attack I
was forced to repair the OS but unfortunately the users disk can't be
found.

Last resort - I ran my disk but tried the users registration code
(that didn't work obviously) but now I need to activate XP. What
problems do I face?

Call your OEM or email them. Ask for your serial to be sent to you (they
have a copy, don't let them fool you) and then use it. Activation will allow
you to enter a new key IIRC or there are a number of tools which will let
you do so. After that you should be able to activate without a problem. If
there is one then there's going to be an option to do it over the phone and
that's usually pretty painless.

Galen
--

"My mind rebels at stagnation. Give me problems, give me work, give me
the most abstruse cryptogram or the most intricate analysis, and I am
in my own proper atmosphere. I can dispense then with artificial
stimulants. But I abhor the dull routine of existence. I crave for
mental exaltation." -- Sherlock Holmes

 

[Guest]

Thanks for the quick response. I will get them to chase up the manufacturer
asap.

 

[Guest]

Thanks guys, but it looks like there is good news after all. Just discovered
that Packard Bell don't supply disks as such - there is a partitioned part of
the drive which stores a recovery programme. So, fingers crossed I will go
home tonight and just restore XP back to its original settings, using its own
software.

Can life be that simple or am I just be too relaxed!

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Galen;
"Ask for your serial to be sent to you (they have a copy, don't let them
fool you)"
Do you mean Product Key?
If so, there is no requirement that OEMs keep a copy and many do not.
If the OEM says they do not have it, they are probably telling the truth.

 

[Guest]

Its okay. As I suspected (and hoped) there was a partitioned part of the
harddrive with the installation process on it.


YYeeehhhaaaa

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Check the manual or their website.
Many computers shipping without CDs have a method of making the necessary
CDs.
If that is not possible, see if a set can be purchased, typically $25 - $50.
Sooner or later the CD will be needed and $50 now is cheaper than $150 or
more later.