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5087
January 17th, 2010 13:00
validating windows xp
I had to re-install windows xp. To make things even worst I couldn't find the oem cd. so I could re-instal windows xp. I got anoter copy of windows xp home edition from a friend. I installed it asked me to enter the product key. Of course I had to typed the key that came with the copy. Now that I installed is telling me I need to validate the key online in 30 days. I tried the same key and of course it didn't work. I tried the key that came with my original copy (the one I couldn't find) and is not accepting that one either. How do I validate windows again? Do I have to order another copy from dell? Is the my original key no good anymore? Please help
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beamermt25
468 Posts
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January 17th, 2010 13:00
Hello!.. The key you recieved when you purchased your computer is what is called an OEM key. If the copy of xp you installed is a retail cd, it will not work. Also they can vary the software a little by manufacture so a toshiba OEM key will not work for a dell windows xp and so on and so forth. I can't cut and paste on this computer, but you are allowed to request a free restore cd/dvd from dell. In the support section do a search for restore disc or restore cd and they should have a form you fill out.
beamermt25
468 Posts
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January 17th, 2010 13:00
You would have to have a key that will work for that copy of XP. If its home edition OEM, you have to have a home edition OEM key, if its Professional retail, etc. etc. Any old xp key will not work, especially OEM vs Retail. If you get the restore discs from dell you will have to re-install it so that copy of XP can use your OEM key properly.
dave51_2fe887
2 Intern
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1.3K Posts
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January 17th, 2010 13:00
If you live in the US. Click the link below for requesting backup discs.
http://support.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/dellcare/en/backupcd_form?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs&redirect=1
You can also borrow a Dell reinstall disc, but it must be the same version of Windows origianally installed. It will install and activate without asking for COA.
robe76a
8 Posts
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January 17th, 2010 13:00
That means I have to uninstal my present copy If I get another copy form dell? It sounds more complicated than it needs to be. I mean if windows is working with no problems you would think there could be a way to just change the key.
Mary G
6 Operator
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20.1K Posts
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January 17th, 2010 14:00
Trust me, I even called MS about this Friday and was told there is no way around it. It is very simple to format the drive with the install disk. It takes a couple of minutes after you tell the install disk to do a quick format. That incorrect key is part of the installation and to prevent piracy, you cannot change it. You need to format to wipe out the wrong key in the installation. If your friend has a Dell reinstall disk that is exactly like yours--same full version--not an upgrade disk--you can use it. Just format to wipe the disk by booting to the disk and letting the installation disk do the format. Use your own key, of course. If his is a retail version or from a diff source, wait until you get yours.
robe76a
8 Posts
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January 17th, 2010 16:00
How long does it take for the replacement cd arrives from dell?
TheRealFireblad
4 Apprentice
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4.6K Posts
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January 18th, 2010 07:00
How long is a piece of string?
I say that, because it depends on a number of factors - primarily how quickly Dell act on your request for replacement discs, and subsequently despatch them?
And that could depend on how inundated they are with support requests?
Thereafter, it's up to the postal system.
Assuming Dell act quickly, and assuming your postal system is up to scratch, you could have the disc(s) in less than a week?
But in reality... not least for the reasons mentioned... it's all rather up in the air.