XP SP2 reinstall with Genuine Key

[Joe Gill]

I have a laptop, which has a XP Home key on the bottom. Someone wiped it
before me, went and installed XP PRO with a bogus key( a volume key). and
SP2 is on top

Since then the PC has had a problem, and the problem ended up needing a
reinstall.

I am looking to purchase the CORRECT version of PRO, to minimize reinstall,
but not be left with a copy of PRO that won't install over the top.

Is there a suggested version to purchase / install.

 

[Malke]

I have a laptop, which has a XP Home key on the bottom. Someone wiped it
before me, went and installed XP PRO with a bogus key( a volume key). and
SP2 is on top

Since then the PC has had a problem, and the problem ended up needing a
reinstall.

I am looking to purchase the CORRECT version of PRO, to minimize reinstall,
but not be left with a copy of PRO that won't install over the top.

Is there a suggested version to purchase / install.

You would need to purchase a full retail copy of XP Pro which will come
with its own Product Key. Back up your data first in any case.

I need to change my XP Product KEY #18 on the FAQ list -
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/xpfaq.html#018


Malke

 

[Rock]

I have a laptop, which has a XP Home key on the bottom. Someone wiped it
before me, went and installed XP PRO with a bogus key( a volume key). and
SP2 is on top

Since then the PC has had a problem, and the problem ended up needing a
reinstall.

I am looking to purchase the CORRECT version of PRO, to minimize
reinstall, but not be left with a copy of PRO that won't install over the
top.

Is there a suggested version to purchase / install.

If you can find someone that has a generic OEM copy of XP Home that should
work with the product key on the sticker. You could use their CD or make a
copy of it, the important aspect is the product key. Then if you wanted to
go to XP Pro, buy an upgrade copy of XP Pro. This is cheaper than a full
retail version.