Need to reinstall XP, lost my CD...

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OrangeDrink

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#11690 6-Feb-2007 16:10

...but I have the Product Key sticker stuck to my case. This is probably a much discussed question with an obvious answer but it'll be the first time I've had to reinstall XP (bought a new HD). Can I borrow a friend's XP install disk and use my legit Product Key? Or am I screwed and going to have to go for Vista? ;)

bradstewart

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#59875 6-Feb-2007 16:34

I am not a lawyer but I would assume as long as you have a valid key and the CD you borrow matches exactly, same service pack etc then there shouldn't be a issue using that CD

freitasm

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#59881 6-Feb-2007 17:30

Other options include a reinstall partition on your HDD (some laptops and desktops come with this) or requesting a spare CD with the software.

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chiefie

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#59893 6-Feb-2007 19:00

To stay total legit, you can call up the manufacturer of the computer, and tell them that you lost the CD.

Reason why this is important is, if say you got HP for specific model, it will install the base OS as well as the driver needed for that. Some comes with additional driver CD for that particular model, some are integrated into the CD. So you can't just borrow the CDs and reinstall that way.

However, if this is just an no-frill OEM built system, then you should just be able to find/borrow an OEM installation CD.

Once again, best contact the PC manufacturer for supports, you may pay some fee for new CD/delivery cost.

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