Install Windows, use different Key?

[scoobyx13x]

Let me try and expain this as best as I can.

I am trying to reinstall Windows on my laptop (new hdd, old one died). However, rather than use the 2+ year old OEM disk that includes all that bundle garbage, I want to use one of my regular Windows XP sp2 CD's.

Problem is, that when it asks for my CD key, and I use the one that is on my laptop, it says invalid key. I know that I am typing it correctly. I can force the install by using the key I got with the install disk, but obviously I can't activate with that key.

Is there any way around this problem?

 

[Alone]

It would take a lot less effort to just use the OEM one, and use the dell decrapifier or whatever thing that removed all the...crap.

 

[bsobel]

Originally posted by: scoobyx13x
Let me try and expain this as best as I can.

I am trying to reinstall Windows on my laptop (new hdd, old one died). However, rather than use the 2+ year old OEM disk that includes all that bundle garbage, I want to use one of my regular Windows XP sp2 CD's.

Problem is, that when it asks for my CD key, and I use the one that is on my laptop, it says invalid key. I know that I am typing it correctly. I can force the install by using the key I got with the install disk, but obviously I can't activate with that key.

Is there any way around this problem?

OEM keys install with OEM disks, retail keys with retail disks....

 

[nerp]

If it's a dell OEM CD, the OS disc usually is just an OEM copy of the OS. The crapware is on a second disc.