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I am trying to install "over" the current installation. I'm using my copy of home edition, but entering the product code from the ms sticker on the computer. It's a valid product sticker for the home edition, but it keeps coming up as invalid. Do I have to use the original installation disk? Is that the problem?
looks good except the computer in question doesn't even have windows installed, let alone having it get online. I'm to the installation part where it asks for the product code and I can't get past it (even though I'm taking the number/letters directly off the sticker)
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no- I'm using my copy of home edition- but entering the computers key code (not my computer) which is stuck on the side. I don't have the owner's disk so I'm using mine- but I do have his key code. Follow me?
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its a real pain, even tho you have the license you cant install. I had the same situation with W2K
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There is a 'Retail Home edition' and an 'OEM Home Edition' of Windows.
Your disc is probably Retail but the PC label is for a pre-installed (OEM) version.
The serial numbers are different for each version. In Windows ME, you can install with the wrong version serial number and change it in the registry to match your sticker.
I tried this with XP but could not find the serial in the registry.There are a few utilities that allow you to view and change the serial but only for the same version type. i.e. OEM number for another OEM number, not OEM to Retail number.
I'm told that you can call microsoft and they will issue you with another number.
It may be a costly premium rate phone number.
I would look to borrow an OEM version of XP and try that with your serial number. If it works, make a 'back-up copy' for yourself.
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the information for W2K is stored in a file on your installation CD, in the system32 folder. I'm convinced its the same for XP.
I wouldnt "back up" a M$ CD, that would be illegal. I think your post may get deleted.
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i dont think backing up a cd is illegal, its the distrobuting of the backed up CD that is the illegal part.
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Backing up is not illegal in any way, though it is shunned upon, as it is very easy just handing that cd to someone that does not own the software. Most Windows CDs have "Do Not Make Illegal Copies of This Disc" posted on the face of the CD. It is probably discussed in full in the end user lisence agreement(EULA). If they did not want you to make any copies at all, they would put write-protection like DVD's and the movie industries attempts to say that it is illegal breaking the encryption codes, but it is not, until someone else recieves a copy of the disc.
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Backing up is not illegal in any way, though it is shunned upon, as it is very easy just handing that cd to someone that does not own the software.
According to Windows XP Home EULA:
Back-up Copy.
IF MANUFACTURER HAS NOT INCLUDED A BACK-UP COPY OF THE SOFTWARE WITH THE COMPUTER ON PHYSICAL MEDIA (e.g. CD OR PARTITIONED HARD DRIVE), YOU MAY MAKE A SINGLE BACK-UP COPY OF THE SOFTWARE. You may use the back-up copy solely for your archival purposes and to reinstall the SOFTWARE on the COMPUTER. Except as expressly provided in this EULA or by local law, you may not otherwise make copies of the SOFTWARE, including the printed materials accompanying the SOFTWARE. You may not loan, rent, lease, lend or otherwise transfer the CD or back-up copy to another user.Regards
i_XpUser
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