What do I need (XP key or disc) for the Vista upgrade?

[DaneGuy]

I'd like to install Vista clean on my system. I'm going to purchase the Business upgrade edition. What will I need during the install? Do I need to have a key from XP (don't know if I have one) or do I just stick in the disc?

Thanks.

 

[Bill Kunert]

If it's like XP was it will just ask for the disk.

 

[Lemon law]

Dane Guy asks a question I really want to get a definitive answer to---because I purchased a used PC on line advertised to come with windows XP pro---and has a windows xp product code sticker with Product key attached to the side of the computer.---and its good enough so I still pass the windows certs test and I continue to get XP online updates. But not 100% sure that original install disk they sent is correct because its labeled for a dell---and this is not a made by dell system.

Nor is the XP system running quite right---so I would ideally want to nuke the existing XP install and start fresh when and if I upgrade to vista---hopefully losing all problems in the process.

 

[bigdaddy51]

You would definitely need a valid copy of XP that's activated, in order to use a Vista upgrade disc. Once the Vista disc confirms a legit copy of XP, A clean install can be done.

 

[bigdaddy51]

Originally posted by: Lemon law
Dane Guy asks a question I really want to get a definitive answer to---because I purchased a used PC on line advertised to come with windows XP pro---and has a windows xp product code sticker with Product key attached to the side of the computer.---and its good enough so I still pass the windows certs test and I continue to get XP online updates. But not 100% sure that original install disk they sent is correct because its labeled for a dell---and this is not a made by dell system.

Nor is the XP system running quite right---so I would ideally want to nuke the existing XP install and start fresh when and if I upgrade to vista---hopefully losing all problems in the process.

In your case, an upgrade disc shouldn't be any problem, because your copy of XP passes the validation process, in order to get the latest updates. When I used an RC2 Vista disc, on a pc that had a legit copy of XP on it, it gave me the choice of upgrade or full install. I wouldn't wipe the drive clean first, because that Dell disc may or may not be the disc used to install the copy of XP that's on your pc. www.magicaljellybean.com will let you download a small proggie called keyfinder, that once installed, will let you see the cd key thats on your pc.

 

[mechBgon]

(to the OP) To be entitled to an upgrade, you need to be licensed to use what you're upgrading from. Do you hold a valid license to use WinXP Pro now? If not, might as well get the full-on standalone version.

 

[Lemon law]

As bigdaddy 51 points out, I evidently do possess a valid license because I receive updates. But the other question about vista is can I somewhat lose all win XP pro OS settings but still retain my XP drivers and previous programs running under Win XP pro?---but when it comes to things like motherboard drivers and device drivers for things like printers--- I have win XP drivers for these devices but not vista drivers.

 

[MrChad]

Aside from the licensing issues that mechBgon mentioned, if Vista's upgrade disc works in the same way that XP's did, you would need to insert the media for a qualifying upgrade product (such as 2000 Pro or XP Pro). Once the installation verifies your "old" media, you reinsert the Vista disc and proceed with the installation.