Another XP CD key question

[rmrf]

I just got word that we need to find any computers that don't have the corporate CD key, and do whatever we need to, to change them. One of the user's on my list has a computer with WinXP Pro on it. Of course, it is the OEM version that shipped with the Dell PC when it was originally purchased. I have the key that I need to change it to, but it is my understanding that you can't change the key between versions, ie, corporate, retail, oem, home, and professional. This user is very resistant to a reformat/reinstall (who wouldn't be). Here is my question:

Can I use the cd and key that I have and do an "upgrade" installation that leaves the files and settings intact, or do I indeed have to do a reinstall?

Any suggestions on this would be great, I don't want to have to be the "bad guy" in this.

 

[bendixG15]

If you are going by the book.....
then ask Dell or MS....

 

[rmrf]

It worked, but I had to use the XPSP2 that we have, instead of the standard XP Pro because you can't update a machine from an "older" copy. It takes just as long as a regular install, but all of the files and settings are left in tact.