Win XP Activation

[compman25]

I bought XP Pro and have lost the cd but still have my case and cd key, my question is can I re-install XP again on my laptop (the computer I originally installed it on) from any XP Pro cd and use my cd key? Or am I screwed and have to purchase XP again?

 

[cubby1223]

If it's a retail copy, I believe Microsoft's tech support can supply you with a new cd.

 

[Atheus]

You can use any CD.

 

[Taz480]

If its an OEM version, you will need a new OEM disc. If its retail you will need a new retail disc. If its upgrade you will need a new upgrade disc. Etc... Product keys are NOT cross compatible.

 

[HybridSquirrel]

im sure your fine with any winxp pro cd as long as its not upgrade version i do it all the time

 

[Robor]

Originally posted by: Taz480
If its an OEM version, you will need a new OEM disc. If its retail you will need a new retail disc. If its upgrade you will need a new upgrade disc. Etc... Product keys are NOT cross compatible.

What Taz said

 

[Taz480]

Originally posted by: HybridSquirrel
im sure your fine with any winxp pro cd as long as its not upgrade version i do it all the time

You can not use any key with any version. They are all platform specific. Oem keys will only work with OEM versions, Retail Upgrade keys will only work with Retail Upgrade versions, Retail Full keys will only work with Retail Full versions, etc.
There are generic keys that will allow you to get past setup but they will not activate and even they must be version specific, just the same.

Using Product Keys During Setup

A product key of the correct type (retail, volume, or OEM, as well as the correct full or upgrade type) is always required during setup. For activation media, it is possible to enter a generic product key of the correct type and then change it to the required machine-specific product key at a later time. You can use the keys provided in the Generic Product Keys section below. These keys cannot be activated, since they are blocked at the clearinghouse. They do however permit setup to complete and start the activation timer.

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/deploy/wpadepl.mspx

 

[compman25]

I believe it is the retail version, I got it from MS when it first came out for $50, it came in a 3 part fold out package. So I can get a new cd from MS? Where do I find the number to call?

thnx

 

[Robor]

Originally posted by: compman25
I believe it is the retail version, I got it from MS when it first came out for $50, it came in a 3 part fold out package. So I can get a new cd from MS? Where do I find the number to call?

thnx

This should point you in the right direction... http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;326246

Edit: Welcome to the AnandTech forums!