very iffy question about windows XP

[Goosemaster]

1. my computer crashed and it stated that a corrupt system file was at fault.

2. I have a legal copy of XP, one which I got from MS when it first came out in 2001.

3. For some odd reason my copy does not have a windows repair option. It only has the recovery console. I use the repair option on computers that are FUBAR, but my disk has never had that option.

4. Assuming that I had "access" to certain XP CDs, at home/work/internet, which CD would I use for repair? Basically, which one would accept my serial? It is a NFR copy that isn't OEM or retail, or corporate...

What is it?

 

[amol]

go back to .ts!! :evil:

*runs away*

 

[neonerd]

Any way you can use a "3rd party" disc, and use your serial number? I believe it's completely legal in that situation. Otherwise, it's really bending rules. If you're really worried...Call MS licensing dept, and tell them you're problem. They're semi-understanding human beings, and will most likely try to help you out.

 

[BigToque]

As far as I know, you own the licence to use WinXP and it doesn't matter which CD you use to install (except the corporate disc - which I believe only works with corporate keys)

 

[Kelemvor]

Wrong forum anyway...

 

[Goosemaster]

Our disks usually ask us to reactivate them, and they require the same format key as the disk. OEM or retail etc.

 

[Goosemaster]

Originally posted by: neonerd
Any way you can use a "3rd party" disc, and use your serial number? I believe it's completely legal in that situation. Otherwise, it's really bending rules. If you're really worried...Call MS licensing dept, and tell them you're problem. They're semi-understanding human beings, and will most likely try to help you out.

*thinking about whether he should call*

 

[neonerd]

format is the same, but OEM won't take a retail serial and vice versa...I would definately try calling them up and telling them your problem. They're open tomorrow.

 

[Evadman]

Personally, I would just get a copy "somwhere" and yse it. I would have no moral problems to using it since I paid for the right to use it. The media is pointless anyway.

Now legaly, I have heard it argued both ways. I have no idea which is the right one. As for your question, every NFR copy I have seen are non-corporate retail. A regular XP Home / Professional copy will work fine. as Stefan said, Corporate keys use a different keyset and your key likely will not work.

 

[Goosemaster]

Originally posted by: neonerd
format is the same, but OEM won't take a retail serial and vice versa...I would definately try calling them up and telling them your problem. They're open tomorrow.

I have to go to bed anyways...I'll leave a disk downloading and then call them up and ask them if it will work with my key.


I might buy MCE 2005 in the future for sh!t and giggles so I can try it out, but for now I jsut want to get my computer up and running without reinstalling.

Oh, and remember, if my computer is down, no more HD clips for anyone.

 

[EyeMWing]

The repair option is done by proceeding PAST the part where it asks about the repair console. It's actually on the "Select a partition to install on" part of the setup. It's not where MS says it is in all the flipping errors.

 

[Goosemaster]

Originally posted by: Evadman
Personally, I would just get a copy "somwhere" and yse it. I would have no moral problems to using it since I paid for the right to use it. The media is pointless anyway.

Now legaly, I have heard it argued both ways. I have no idea which is the right one. As for your question, every NFR copy I have seen are non-corporate retail. A regular XP Home / Professional copy will work fine. as Stefan said, Corporate keys use a different keyset and your key likely will not work.

cool. I would go ahead and jsut use another copy, but I would be worried about not being able to d/l future updates and such

 

[Goosemaster]

Originally posted by: EyeMWing
The repair option is done by proceeding PAST the part where it asks about the repair console. It's actually on the "Select a partition to install on" part of the setup. It's not where MS says it is in all the flipping errors.

I know. I use it at work.

I really never understood why my disk doesn't have it

 

[Evadman]

Originally posted by: Goosemaster
cool. I would go ahead and jsut use another copy, but I would be worried about not being able to d/l future updates and such

As far as I know, that is based entirely on keys. IIRC, the error message even says that it can not validate your key.