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    Getting a legit copy of XP for a machine?

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by akadoublej, Aug 2, 2008.

  1. akadoublej

    akadoublej Notebook Evangelist

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    A friend was given a IBM Think Centre that appears to be around 4 years old.

    The hard drive has been removed but there is a Windows XP sticker on the side of the case. Is it possible to get a legitimate copy of XP to install on the machine with buying another software license and if so how does one go about doing this?

    My understanding (which may be incorrect) is that the machine should still licensed for running the OS that was installed on the machine when purchased.
     
    akadoublej, Aug 2, 2008
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  2. wywern209

    wywern209 NBR Dark Knight

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    yes, call ibm and request another disc. they may charge u but u will still get one.
     
    wywern209, Aug 2, 2008
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  3. flickenmaste

    flickenmaste Notebook Geek

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    Im lucky...they gave me a disk of windows xp with my new pc i bought so if i need xp on another computer or i ever need to reload xp i got a disk =)
     
    flickenmaste, Aug 2, 2008
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  4. wywern209

    wywern209 NBR Dark Knight

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    i believe that disk will only work for your new pc. it is most likely a restore disk. which will only reinstall xp on the new computer in case it is needed.
     
    wywern209, Aug 2, 2008
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  5. Shyster1

    Shyster1 Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    That is correct. Also, the COA sticker on the computer will only work with an royalty-based OEM version of XP, and would not allow you to activate a copy of XP taken off of a retail disk, for example. Finally, if the installation on the removed hard drive is being used somewheres else, you might get problems if that other installation is still being treated as valid.

    The simplest, and best, solution is to call up IBM and order a new disk for the system.
     
    Shyster1, Aug 2, 2008
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  6. kanehi

    kanehi Notebook Deity

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    I would recommend like others to see if IBM/Lenovo can provide you with a recovery disc. You can probably get XP thru eBay.. OEM or Retail. The problem with that is you'll have trouble finding the drivers for your gear. If you can find the model number of your laptop and get the drivers from IBM first before installing. Your friend probably took off the HD for security reasons.
     
    kanehi, Aug 2, 2008
    #6