Need to use Dell XP cd-key but I don't have the Dell XP disk

[ClockerXP]

I'm working on a friends computer. I need to reinstall WindowsXP but I don't have the Dell provided CD handy. Can I somehow convert my WinXP retail into a Dell oem cd so I can install Windows. I don't want to bug my friend to dig up his CD if I don't have to.

Thanks for any feedback...

CxP

 

[Budman]

If you can boot into the OS you can use this program to get the CD key from the registry.

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

 

[videoclone]

Ask your friend to look for it...i dont think you cant use your version of windows ... The DELL Windows CD keys are not the same os the Retail or Retail oem Windows CD keys...

If you contact Dell or Microsoft they may send you a replacement CD / if you provide your current key for an Authentication check but this may take a week to arrive to you in with snail-mail. so your better off telling your friend to start digging for that CD or find someone else with a Dell Windows CD . .. good luck ...

Not 100% on this information so if you have the time try installing your oem with the dell key ... cant do any harm ! Buhahah

 

[ClockerXP]

Thanks. I guess I'll just have him dig up the CD.

CxP

 

[sourceninja]

PM sent with some instructions that may help.

 

[ClockerXP]

Thanks. I'll give it a try.

 

[pcgeek11]

Originally posted by: Budman
If you can boot into the OS you can use this program to get the CD key from the registry.

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

If you use this program or AIDA on the friends pc it can get the original CD key for you.

pcgeek11

 

[ClockerXP]

Fark..it didn't work. I set up a copy of my retail CD as OEM cd but the Dell cd-key (from the sticker on the side) is found to be invalid during the install...

 

[ClockerXP]

Originally posted by: pcgeek11

Originally posted by: Budman
If you can boot into the OS you can use this program to get the CD key from the registry.

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

If you use this program or AIDA on the friends pc it can get the original CD key for you.

pcgeek11

I have the cd-key, I just don't have the Dell WinXP CD...

 

[pcgeek11]

ClockerXP,

" Fark..it didn't work. I set up a copy of my retail CD as OEM cd but the Dell cd-key (from the sticker on the side) is found to be invalid during the install... "

This didn't work for obvious reasons. The Retail CD key will not work with an OEM Version, ever.

Your buddies CD Key will not work as it is an OEM Version and the CD you are using is a Retail version. OK

To be fully legal you couldn't use your CD Key that is attached to the retail version you are attempting to install.

Get an OEM CD and use his OEM CD Key.
or
Get a new Retail License CD Key and use your Retail CD.
or
Get your buddy to cough up the original OEM CD that came with the PC and use the original Key.

These are your options as I see it, ... legally!

pcgeek11

 

[ClockerXP]

I got the original Dell CD from my buddy. It didn't even ask for a key during install. Nice!