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I purchased a new Dell PC quite some time ago, which had Windows XP Home Edition pre-installed on the hard-drive. I distinctly remember that an installation disk was included as well, but I have misplaced it. Of course, the original serial number is still located on the side of my case.
However, I need to actually reformat my PC (or use the recover option if possible) and reinstall Windows XP...which, of course, requires an installation CD. Would it be at all possible to obtain another copy of the Windows XP Home Edition installation disk and still use my original serial number for installation, or does every serial number require the authentic CD? If this is impossible, are there any alternatives in my situation?
The best way to resolve you problem would be to contact Dell and see if they will send you a copy of the install CD.
Another option would be to purchase a new copy of XP and install it on your Dell. Then you'd need the MOBO and other drivers but I suspect that you can readily get these from the Dell site.
A third option would be to try any XP install CD and see if your serial number will work. It might. It might not.
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No need to spend money on this one, since you already have valid and legit Product Key.
Just have someone else running the same exact XP flavor as what came pre-loaded on your Dell burn you a copy of theirs.
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http://www.crazydecal.com/surplusbytes/prodpages/surplusbytes.htm
See above if this 24 dollar one is the right one.
This is a great person (dealer}.
http://feedback.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=surplusbytes&iid=The above is his Ebay store.
I have dealt with him a few years and he is tops.
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You might as well use whatever bills constitute your $24.00 as zig-zag paper to roll up a cigarette, the next you or someone else you know needs to smoke.
Technically that dude is breaking the law and it is also a rip-off to sell you the OS disc and ask YOU to supply the key and COA necessary to activate the software.
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http://support.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/kb/en/document?dn=1090151&c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19
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Systems shipped after July 15, 2004 came with Symantec PC Restore. This utility restores the computer to an "as-shipped" condition. If you haven't reformatted, repartitioned, or modified the master boot record, this should work.
My mistake.... I pasted the info above, but I forgot to type this in it too.... So if you bought your Dell after July 15, 2004, you'll have that Dell PC Restore that will put your comp back to the way it came out of the box.
Of course, you'll need to backup all your documents first, as it will wipe everything and restore your computer to "as shipped new" condition. Hope this helps; good luck.
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