Reactivating Windows XP after a new hard drive install

I was given a Dell Computer with a dead harddrive. I want to put in a used
hard drive and reinstall the operating system (Windows XP home edition). I
don't have the original CD for this computer, but I have one for my other
computer (same operating system). I do have the product key sticker attached
to this computer that I want to change the hard drive in. Should this be a
problem in activating the software via phone if I don't have the original CD?

Thanks, BruceS

Contact Dell and request a Dell Windows XP Reinstallation CD.
How to replace your lost, broken, or missing Microsoft software or hardware
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/326246/en-us




--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows Desktop Experience -
Windows Vista Enthusiast

---------------------------------------------------------------

"BruceS" <BruceS@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message news:6D0EEB9D-87BD-4C8E-B1D0-ACF2C87A7099@microsoft.com...
I was given a Dell Computer with a dead harddrive. I want to put in a used
hard drive and reinstall the operating system (Windows XP home edition). I
don't have the original CD for this computer, but I have one for my other
computer (same operating system). I do have the product key sticker attached
to this computer that I want to change the hard drive in. Should this be a
problem in activating the software via phone if I don't have the original CD?

Thanks, BruceS

BruceS wrote:

> I was given a Dell Computer with a dead harddrive. I want to put in a
> used
> hard drive and reinstall the operating system (Windows XP home edition).
> I don't have the original CD for this computer, but I have one for my
> other
> computer (same operating system). I do have the product key sticker
> attached
> to this computer that I want to change the hard drive in. Should this be
> a problem in activating the software via phone if I don't have the
> original CD?

If your other computer is a Dell and the OS is XP Home, all you need to do
is use that CD. You will not need to enter the Product Key or activate. If
the other computer is not a Dell and is a retail version, the Product Key
on the Dell's sticker will not work. You can borrow a friend's Dell XP Home
or use a generic OEM XP Home CD with the Product Key on the sticker. You
may need to call for activation in the latter case.

Malke
--
MS-MVP
Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!
FAQ - http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/#FAQ

BruceS wrote:
> I was given a Dell Computer with a dead harddrive. I want to put in a used
> hard drive and reinstall the operating system (Windows XP home edition). I
> don't have the original CD for this computer, but I have one for my other
> computer (same operating system). I do have the product key sticker attached
> to this computer that I want to change the hard drive in. Should this be a
> problem in activating the software via phone if I don't have the original CD?
>
> Thanks, BruceS


Product Keys are bound to the specific type and language of
CD/license (OEM, Volume, retail, or full) with which they are purchased.
For example, a WinXP Home OEM Product Key won't work for any retail
version of WinXP Home, or for any version of WinXP Pro, and vice versa.
An OEM Product Key will not work to install a retail product. An
Italian Product Key will not work with an English CD. Bottom line:
Product Keys and CD/license types cannot usually (it's been reported
that the Product Key for a full license will work with an Upgrade CD) be
mixed & matched.

You could use an unbranded, generic OEM disk for the same WinXP
edition (Home vs. Pro) as that for which you have the license.


--

Bruce Chambers

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