Q: A friend bought a copy of XP Pro that looked legal, etc., which turned out to be a bootleg. Discovered by their Genuine Advantage update. She is willing to legitimize so the only question is the best method. Options:
1. MS is a page where you can buy a serial number for $ 150 that the current installation.
2 legitimizes. Buy a legit OEM version of its system of the company that sold her the machine.
Is it possible to install a legal copy of the current installation, without re-install its software and settings?
TIA. 
Re:Once you buy a used copy of XP, look in the FS/T section they are cheap, you can use the freeware RockXP to change the key I think or you can do a little registry magic (http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-1035_11-5034890.html) and swap your key.
Re:I think the oobe timer thingie works on anything, all it does it bring up the activation panels.
Re:Originally posted by: guy
You only need a valid key to legalize any installation. You will not have to reinstall etc. just change your PID and allow Microsoft to confirm validity through Windows genuine Advantage.
Check out this Microsoft Knowledge base article here. (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/328874/)
That is only for corporate version.
Re:You only need a valid key to legalize any installation. You will not have to reinstall etc. just change your PID and allow Microsoft to confirm validity through Windows genuine Advantage.
Check out this Microsoft Knowledge base article here. (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/328874/)
Re:Originally posted by: guy
I would buy an OEM copy of XP Pro for $139 before I bought a key from MS for $150 to place on the bootleg OS, as least with the storebought software you know what you have.
That's exactly what I had in mind. :thumbsup:
The only advantage I see in getting the key from MS is, she could avoid having to re-install the whole thing from the ground up. That's why I asked if that's possible with her own legit copy.
Re:If you have the receipt and WGA isn't reporting a false positive, Microsoft will send you a free CD key.
Text (http://news.com.com/Microsoft+plans+to+give+some+pirates+a+break/2100-1016_3-5695302.html)
Re:Oh, and before I forget, I believe MS has a program where you can report that you got bootleg software and if you tell them who you bought it from they'll give you a copy of XP. Might want to ask around.
Re:Does she have a legit CoA/serial on her machine for any Windows OS? You could always get an upgrade version for much less. Also less if she's a student.
Re:I would buy an OEM copy of XP Pro for $139 before I bought a key from MS for $150 to place on the bootleg OS, as least with the storebought software you know what you have.
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