formating desktop without cds

[craigs182]

is there a way to format my computer without having the software cds?
ie windows xp?
i never got them with my computer and im selling this to get a laptop..

 

[ollie]

not to sure, sometimes the windows setup files are on a hidden partition (or so ive heard)

as long as you have a valid windows serial number, i dont see why you cannot just download Windows XP off bit torent, and use your serial with that.

 

[Andy A]

Correct, all windows copies are the same only differing by the service pack issue that comes with them, the cd's can legally be copied its just the license key that is illegal to use on multiple machines

 

[ollie]

thought so cheers for confirmation :¬)

 

[craigs182]

anyone got a copy to lend me?

 

[ollie]

just download it mate, will only take 2 hours max probs. I can get you the torrent if you want

 

[BenWall]

And then when you have downloaded it, it will not be a genuine copy, so pm me and I will tell you how to make it genuine.

 

[craigs182]

just download it mate, will only take 2 hours max probs. I can get you the torrent if you want

yeh that would be sound mate cheers...

 

[ollie]

Pmed

 

[Darren S]

Correct, all windows copies are the same only differing by the service pack issue that comes with them, the cd's can legally be copied its just the license key that is illegal to use on multiple machines

It can also depend if the CD is an OEM or open volume licensed version (aka corporate). Also, be wary of some of the torrents as they maybe vendor specific. You can install cross-vendor CDs, such as HP XP+SP2 onto say an NEC laptop, but it will still require a genuine XP key by the time it gets to the Genuine Validation stage.

If your XP key is quite old on the side of the case, you'll probably have to reactivate with Microsoft anyway. Those pile of turds called Sony Vaios are classic for this...:dead:

D.

 

[Leeshez]

This is a very old bump but how can you find the valid windows serial number. My desk top came with it installed but i have no info what so ever on it.

 

[AhmedRSi]

From cmd promt

format c:

iirc



On a serious note, get a windows cd. Job done.

 

[Andy.]

^^You didn't clock the post date?

This is a very old bump but how can you find the valid windows serial number. My desk top came with it installed but i have no info what so ever on it.

you can use this free piece of legal software to identify it for you.

http://www.rjlsoftware.com/software/utility/winproductkey/

 

[Leeshez]

^^You didn't clock the post date?



you can use this free piece of legal software to identify it for you.

http://www.rjlsoftware.com/software/utility/winproductkey/

Thanks guys. Im a complete tool. I have found the code stuck on top of the tower under the modem. It is an old bump i know.

 

[Andy.]

lol, yep, thats easier!

 

[Leeshez]

The search function came in use.

 

[sargey]

fdisk ftw!