Trying to re-install XP with sp2 and running into an issue. I want to keep it legal. The problem I'm having is the license key. I enter the key on the sticker on the case and then a pop up, "The product id you entered is not valid" It was valid before. Do I have to call Microsoft ? Getting information off the Internet is like taking a drink from a fire hydrant. ~Mitchell Kapor ~

This would be an indication the cd in the case is not the original. If you have other xp cd/cases try one of them with this key. This xp was installed on this system previously correct?

The pc came with XP on it and no cd. I have a copy of the cd with a valid sticker on the case. Getting information off the Internet is like taking a drink from a fire hydrant. ~Mitchell Kapor ~

Cd doesn't match sticker on case = no good. Cd's are serialized to prevent this kind of install. What you need is cd that has sticker on the cd case not the box. Microsoft will tell you to contact the OEM of the box not them. That is one of the terms for Original Equipment Manufactures - they are the tech support not MS