Windows question....

[punkdork9]

Ok so here is my problem. The copy of Wnndows XP on my computer is aparently not legit. I didn't build this computer some one else did for me. I want to buy a legit copy of Wondows XP or upgrade to Vista. What will happen to all the programs (ie games, photoshop programs and general info) that is currently on there if a new OS is installed? Should i back up or ghost the system before I do this? I know enough about computers to do it i just don't have the experience to go ahead and purchase something. Any ideas or thoughts as to what i should do here? any help would be great.

Topic closed, since it is now being continued in Operating Systems.

AnandTech Moderator
mechBgon

 

[robisbell]

okay, how do you know it's not a legal copy? did they put the COA sticker on the case?

 

[punkdork9]

No they didn't, not that i am aware of. The way I found out my copy was not legit was that I was trying to update my windows player and Microsoft came up and said my windows copy needs to be authenticated. =not legit?

 

[boomerang]

If you want to stay with XP, you can click the "Fix Now" button (it's named something similar) in that dialog box you get at boot up.

This will direct you to a Microsoft site where you can purchase a legitimate key. There will be then be step by step instructions on it's installation. You could buy a copy of XP cheaper, but it's a simple quick fix.

This is one path if you're certain your copy is not legal and it sounds as though it's not.

If you're not seeing these options I mentioned above, you can wait it out until you do. Microsoft is not going to come busting down the door with the Gestapo behind them.

Even then, you don't have to do anything about it. After a month you will get a warning at boot up about not getting updates anymore etc.

You can buy a copy of XP and do a format and reinstall of all your programs etc. I don't think a repair install with a new legit copy will work. I am not certain of that though. When the keys don't match, I'm not certain what will happen. Maybe someone else here will know. I have done many a repair install, but always with the same product key.

This is if you want to stay with XP.

 

[boomerang]

If you want to go with Vista, download the Vista Upgrade Advisor. Run it, let it update and do it's thing and it will tell you what software and hardware is not compatible with Vista.

It will also make a suggestion as to which version to get.

I'm not sure if you can then use an upgrade version of Vista to install over your XP. Your XP has a bogus key and the install may not be happy with this. I'm thinking it's going to be a no-go.

Your only option will most likely be a format and fresh install of Vista. Reinstalling programs and data, etc.

Whether to stay with XP, or go with Vista is your own personal decision.

There may be other options available to you that I am unaware of or that are just not coming to mind right now. I'm sure there are a bunch of different scenarios you could go with.

The Operating Systems forum here may be a better place to post this. Probably more and better responses.

 

[punkdork9]

Thanks for your advice. I will try reposting it there and see what i get.