Want to reinstall Windows, but can't find disc...

[Ads_172]

I'm planning on formatting my HDD and reinstalling Windows, but I can't for the life of me find my copy of XP / recovery CD.

Is there anyway you can get a new one without shelling out for a new copy? Surely Microsoft can do a check to see mine's genuine and then re-issue?

 

[JaseCat]

If you have your certificate of aunthenticity on your machine it have the product code you can either call microsoft and they will send you out a cd or you could download a dodgy copy and then just put your cd code in, it will prob install but you will have to call microsoft again to register it.

Hope that helps!

 

[Ads_172]

Nah, I bought the copy after I bought the machine, the machine came without anything loaded.

 

[ChrisH]

have fun trying to get MS to send you a copy lol,

just seen your post, aslong as you use the same version of windows then your product key will validate it.

 

[Andy.]

There are enough versions to download if you know where to look and ways of validating them as genuine without too many problems too.

If you have bought a copy, you don't have to feel guilty.

 

[Vish]

As long as you have a copy of your Windows Key (its normally on a sticker you put on your machine) then you can use anyones copy of the Windows CD.

Just as long as you get the right version, eg. XP Home, XP Professional, and then put your key in in reinstall.

 

[Ads_172]

Can't see a sticker, probably just left it in the packagin which I've now lost...

If I go into Control Panel > System, there's a number there under 'registered to': XXXXX-XXX-XXXXXXX-XXXXX

Could that be it?

 

[Woodentop]

Can't see a sticker, probably just left it in the packagin which I've now lost...

If I go into Control Panel > System, there's a number there under 'registered to': XXXXX-XXX-XXXXXXX-XXXXX

Could that be it?

nope, google a windows product key viewer.

 

[Ads_172]

Yep, have just done that and got my key, so now just need to find a copy of XP Home...

 

[steve32c]

Yep, have just done that and got my key, so now just need to find a copy of XP Home...

I've got three versions of XP - XP Home SP1 upgrade - XP Home SP2 - XP Pro SP2 if yours was either of the home versions pm me your address and I can post it on so long as you have the right key for the version everything will be fine.........

 

[Ads_172]

That would be a huge help, thanks Steve. My copy might be at my parents' place apparently, so will check there and if I still can't find it I'll send you a PM.

The key is definitely right, I remember the digits from when I originally installed it.