Lost XP Pro CD

[Arcuivie]

I purchased my current system about a year and a half ago, and like me, I tend to lose things over a long period of time. This time I lost my XP Pro CD, and I need it now for Christmas to format my hard drive and re-install windows. Is there anyway I could use someone else's CD? Will it ask me for my CD-Key again? If so is there anyway I can find it on my computer? Any help would be great.

 

[imported_Lucifer]

I believe you need to call Microsoft and purchase a new CD key. I could be wrong though.

 

[phisrow]

Retail systems often have the CD key on a sticker somewhere on their chassis. With notebooks there is a fairly standard spot(on the bottom) while desktops show a bit more variety. I am not a lawyer; but my understanding of the law is that you, as the holder of a valid license, can use pretty much any CD you want, assuming it is only for the product(s) that your licence entitles you to.

 

[gwag]

if you have it still installed there is a program that will tell your activation code should be all you need. but legaly you need that sticker, you can pretty much bet that that no one will ever come to your house wanting to see that sticker. http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

 

[azel]

Phisrow is correct; you can use anyone's CD to install Windows as long as you use your own CD-key. If you have lost your CD-key and there's no sticker on the back of your system don't panic; Microsoft has a process--albeit lengthy--to verify your purchase if you call them. It's not very unusual that people lose their CDkeys, and MS wants to help them rather than turning them down and forcing them to get a pirated copy.

 

[ComatoseDelirium]

Ahh... I know a way to find out your serial, thats on your current setup, I downloaded the mini-application on bearshare, it also serves, as a serial switcher.. you can switch the serial on your xp os, without reformatting, though, I may bet in trouble for posting this.. lol..