Windows XP: Help, I need to make my Windows XP system legit again
- 2/20/09 2:27 PM
get Linux
by richteral - 2/13/09 11:38 PM In reply to: Help, I need to make my Windows XP system legit again by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
If you absolutely, but absolutely must have Windows for some very particular and valid reason, then go out and cough up for XP Pro. But do you need Pro, or would Home be enough at less cost? In either case you will be paying good money for nearly obsolescent and cumbersome stuff; so Vista perhaps? Not by a long chalk. It seems half-baked and imminently transitory due to the expected introduction of Windows 7. Wait for that? No, since to make sure it has been brought up to scratch it should be widely used for at least a year, which it will only be at some point in future.
Quandary indeed; now the way out: Linux, that is one of its versions. Ubuntu works just fine on my dad's 10-year old desktop, which could not even handle Windows anymore. My dad using it just shows anyone can. There are quite a few advantages to Linux apart from it being FREE, and unless you are completely stuck on some stuff that will only work on Windows, there is nothing preventing you from installing it. Ubuntu will mail you a disk if you ask (takes time), or you can download and burn your own CD (some risk of errors there). Gets a little getting used to, but as long as you are at least vaguely literate should not pose an insurmountable problem. Just check out that all the applications you insist on using and could not live without will work with it.
Since your OS is not legit, you will need to wipe the system clean in any case just to be sure there is nothing ugly lurking in the depths (remove OS completely). First, of course, you have to back up all the essential data so as not to lose them.
Uninstall the OS or get rid of the PC
by GENE8 - 2/13/09 11:48 PM In reply to: Help, I need to make my Windows XP system legit again by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Maybe I'm wrong, but it sounds to me like this guy may have sold you a stolen PC. Because how could he have loaded an OS on it without using an installation CD , which is usually proof that the OS is legal?(I assume he did not give you a installation CD when he sold the PC to you). If I were you, I would try to contact this guy again to find out why the OS is not legal and why he didn't supply you with an installation CD if it is not legal like you said. If you can't get in touch with him anymore, then my advice would be to uninstall the OS completely and do a clean install with a new OS, or get rid of the PC altogether if it turns out that it was stolen by the guy who sold it to you.
Doesn't mean the PC is stolen...
by darrenforster99 - 2/14/09 12:34 AM In reply to: Uninstall the OS or get rid of the PC by GENE8Just because it doesn't come with an installation CD doesn't mean it is illegal. There are a number of reasons why a PC wont come with installation CD.
1. PC was sold without installation CD and you have to create your own - many PC manufacturers like Dell, Compaq and HP all do this (the cheapskates can't afford a blank CD!). As long as the Windows XP sticker is there this totally legal. Most laptops have the sticker underneath.
2. The installation disc was lost. As long as the licence sticker is intact then it is more than legal. It is the sticker that proves ownership of Windows not the disc.
3. As what appears to have happened in this case - the guy has built a PC and wanted to make a quick buck, to ensure he undercuts everyone he has used a dodgy version of Windows from the internet to knock £80 off the price, and no doubt the guy has installed the same copy of XP on numerous other PC's and also sold them on the internet. With this trick the computer will work fine for a few weeks or months until Microsoft catch up on it, during which time the crook can do a runner with his money and not worry about any comebacks.
additional possibilities
by erimus2179 - 2/20/09 6:37 PM In reply to: Doesn't mean the PC is stolen... by darrenforster99Great answer! But there's additional possibilites. Yeah, the guy that built the computer may have just been trying to save some cash. More than likely, he formatted the hard drive, reinstalled with the disk he had, but didn't input the activation key. Thus giving it a 30 day trial. As well, there's numerous reasons why a hobby builder would do that... most likely because he didn't want to buy a new operating system for his new rig. True... it's against MS's TOS to install the same operating system with the same key on two different computers (i'm sure there's stipulations there... you might be able to install the same OS onto two different computers that you own... maybe not... who really reads the EULA other than lawyers?). BUT that's also probably the reason that at least since XP forward, there's been a limit to 3 activations per CD/ activation key.
To the original poster: I'm sure that by now, you've resolved your issues, probably from someone on this thread. But just in case: If you're going to buy a new operating system. personally, i wouldn't go with vista. NOT that there's anything wrong with vista, I use it on my gaming rig with no problems at all, whatsoever. But from your description of how much ram you've got, i'd stick with XP pro or home. Auction sites or mom and pop computer shops would be your best bet of finding one that's safe. You CAN do vista if need be... but you'll more than likely have to do some additional upgrades to your computer before doing so. Ram, hard drive, video card, possibly even processor/ motherboard. It really just depends on what you have and if it's capable.
Illegal OS Does Not Equal Stolen PC
by Harvey-7 - 2/21/09 7:22 AM In reply to: Uninstall the OS or get rid of the PC by GENE8Just because the operating system is not legit does not mean the computer system is stolen. It sounds like a clone PC (a PC put tother by the owner) which probably means the guy was trying to save money and didn't want to buy an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) version of XP. I know countless people who do this to save money on their newly built system which I don't understand. OEM versions of XP are a fraction of the price of the retail versions. All my systems are clones and all of them have these OEM versions of XP which is worth the $100 to avoid headaches like these.
The right solution is the ONLY solution
by bobusingbol - 2/13/09 11:48 PM In reply to: Help, I need to make my Windows XP system legit again by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Microsoft is aware that there illegal OS installations out there. Microsoft is also aware that there are people just like you who have unknowingly fallen victim to a purchase of a computer, whether new, used, or rebuilt, which have an illegal XP OS installation. Since you are essentially an innocent victim, Microsoft can and will validate your installation as long as you contact them and inform them of the circumstances.
See (http://social.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/genuinewindowsxp/thread/2f465606-a37a-49f3-b7c7-0b106701114a/) and there's a long list of topics surrounding illegal installations. There's instructions on how to check to see if your installation is legitimate, and also why it is not.
There is even a link on Microsoft's website for the Microsoft genuine Windows offer (http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/FAQ.aspx?displaylang=en#ID0EV). Scroll down about 2/3 of the way and look for a topic labeled "Get genuine: How can I take advantage of the genuine Microsoft software offer?". You may qualify for a free or deeply discounted legal validation code.
Microsoft is usually fairly compassionate with people who come forth and disclose the installation's illegality. Take your chances with them. You may have better results simply contacting them by telephone at the number the WGA software provides once it has identified your installation as illegal.
I had a strange issue, not identical, but similar. In my situation, the OEM tag which came with the PC direct from DELL was flagged as illegal when I had to reinstall the operating system. I contacted them, they asked for the numbers, created a new validation code, I entered the validation code, and boom, the OS was back to being legal again.
Even more strange is I have installed the OS on a new hard drive since then, used the same numbers that are on the tag (the ones the failed before), and this time they worked with no problems. Perhaps by validating through tech support, they "un-flagged" my unique number? I don't know, but I just ran WGA again and it reports the OS as legitimate.
genuine advantage vs. new program
by jafasvdjb - 2/20/09 6:16 PM In reply to: The right solution is the ONLY solution by bobusingbolit is actually less expensive to just go to Wal-Mart & purchase a new Windows XP program than to buy the geniune advantage. I was in the same situation, purchased genuine which cast me over $160.00...Wal-Mart has program for under $130.00. If that helps at all...
All Computers can't be updated to Vista
by bigbear639 - 2/20/09 8:07 PM In reply to: genuine advantage vs. new program by jafasvdjbTo those so called Tech's and other Experts, they should know that not every Model of Notebook Computers can be updated ti Vista. I have 3 Toshiba Satellite Notebooks tha when I run the Windows Update Advisor it says that my Video Card is not suitable for Updating. It meets all other specs 2GB RAM, Processor etc.
In one case I updated my one Computer from Windows XP Home to Pro and the computer can only be updated by doing a Clean Install. Another computer had a legit copy but It refused to reinstall. I had to call the Manufacturer who gave me a Temp Key which allowed me to install and activate the Notebook. After that Windows is recognized as a Legit Copy. The license can only be used on that one computer. The Manufacturer have a long list of available Keys that they can give you.
having an oem that doesn't match is Not the same exact issue
by stiv6 - 2/20/09 8:02 PM In reply to: The right solution is the ONLY solution by bobusingbolFor someone with an illegit windows xp that is a problem for the owner.
is it not the best use of your money to go to a place like staples and for under $300 this week get a brand new fully functional up to the minute computer unit? why waste a hundred bucks for xp which will not be supported that much longer by Microsof.
In any case it is unlikely not to cost you a bundle to legitamize your invalid op sys. Another answer would be to go with linux type system which will run on most computers and can cost extremely little. also Sun Micro and Novell have at times released windows like operating systems for free. check their websites.
Windows XP
by Frederick Rothe III - 2/21/09 5:52 AM In reply to: having an oem that doesn't match is Not the same exact issue by stiv6Excuse me,but some people like myself have printers and other equuipment that can ONLY RUN ON XP!! Vista is and has been known to carry many problems and has not addressed the secirity issue that many had with XP; in fact it is NO MORE SECURE THAN XP!! That is why they have developed Windows 7 (when that is coming out,no one has a clue). Because of people like you,companies like HP have built in obsolescence into their printers such as the Deskjet 692C that was my mother's,works well,ONLY OPERATES ON XP,and can no longer find parts because the unit is almost 10 years old. It is like buying a Toyota and after two years having difficulties finding parts and supplies because they don't build that model or have upgraded it. My pc is not even two years old,is XP, and yet they want to end support while there are other, brand new pc's still using XP. If you can get a legitimate key for XP,go for it. I don't know why people would buy on Craig's list or ebay,knowing that there are people out there scamming unknown customers like the one in this topic. He should have known that to buy ANY SOFTWARE, YOU MUST GO TO A STORE THAT SELLS LEGITIMATE, LEGAL SOFTWARE!!
Vista & XP Security issue
by FHankfreeman - 2/21/09 6:41 AM In reply to: Windows XP by Frederick Rothe IIIFrederick,
In your above post you have advised that Vista is less secure than
Xp. I disagree with that statement, for I have found it to be quite secure. I have had several Vista Test system and on the Corp Network administrators could enter the system.
Please provide examples of your VISTA security concern... but only in short form, for this post is not about Vista, and our opinion about is it off subject. If you like we can open up a post on the Vista forum.
As for printers, It may be time to upgrade... DeskJect printers cheap, it is the ink that makes them money. That is why I use a Laser printer HP 1100 for laser is signigicantly cheaper... I have a color printer but rarely want/need to print in color.. HP plan to obsolet printer and computer/notebooks is a technical reality. If they choose not to update the drivers that their decision NOT Microsofts. I believe MS will accept any printer driver update for an OS, it is simply in their best interest.
I look forward to your reply.
Hank Freeman
Sr. Systems/Data/Info Arch
end.
I sympathize--
by wme1221 - 2/22/09 6:10 AM In reply to: Windows XP by Frederick Rothe IIIHad very similar problems a couple years ago when I upgraded to Vista. Had a laser multifunction machine that worked fine w/Vista as a printer, copier, and Fax machine, but the manufacturer never developed a driver to make the scanner work. Finally burned up a part that cost more than half the cost of a new printer, so I just bit the bullet and bought one. Shame to have to do that kind of thing, but you have to do what you have to do--
A good Laser Printer is a good thing
by FHankfreeman - 2/22/09 7:15 AM In reply to: I sympathize-- by wme1221For those who are reading this sub-post, I suggest that you ebay around for a used laser printer which you an get for a song. I have an HP 1100 and gave one of my kids an HP PL6, laser printer for just standard printing...
It has been the most cost effective item they have had... It is the Laser-EverReady-Bunny for general printing.
If this sound like a good idea, then add a new printer in Vista and make sure the OS support what ever you are looking for in your OS.
Just suggestion for those who need a reliable printing solution.
Hank Freeman
end..
I think you are overstating how much hardware needs XP
by BigGuns149 - 2/23/09 2:14 PM In reply to: Windows XP by Frederick Rothe IIII wouldn't make any provocative claims like that nobody still needs XP anymore, but the amount of hardware that is still worth using that doesn't support Vista isn't as extensive as some people claim.
Virtually every printer that Samsung still makes cartridges for has Vista drivers. Ditto with HP. I have 9 year old HP printers where Vista already has the drivers included. The setup is no more complicated than plugging in the USB cable. I have seen an HP Laserjet 5si print from a machine running Vista Business x64, which is such an old printer I would question why the owner went to the trouble to pay someone to set it up.
This may seem cruel to say, but what is so important about being able to keep using a Deskjet 692C? I can buy a USB printer that is twice as fast as that printer for ~$10 off of Craiglist. Even if you have no trust in Craiglist there are regularly printers sold at retail for $30 that run circles around your old printer not only in speed, but in print quality.
Furthermore, since that printer doesn't have USB at some point you are going to either buy a USB to Centronics adapter or a IO card with a DB25 port, which costs only a few dollars less than a new printer that is dramatically faster and easier to set up. I can understand someone wanting to keep XP to keep using an old plotter or at least something that would be expensive to upgrade, but I seriously don't understand your interest in holding onto at printer that is approaching 15 years old. Furthermore, your car analogy doesn't make much sense because it ignores the fact that cars are far more complicated machines hence making them more worth fixing. In addition, a cheap new car is $10K whereas a cheap new printer is $30-50. The comparison isn't very apt at all.
As for the security claim I would like to know your source on that. IIRC Secunia released a report recently where they found that there were nearly twice as many unpatched issues on XP than Vista. Considering that MS is putting XP into extended support phase (ie. only critical bugs will receive patches) I think the suggestion that XP is as secure as Vista will seem downright incredulous by the end of this year.
Windows genuine adsvantage kit worked for me
by divybhimull - 2/21/09 6:10 AM In reply to: The right solution is the ONLY solution by bobusingbolI had the same problem with pc which I purchased. I identified the problem when I performed a system update and failed the validation process. Xp pro was installed but the validation code was invalid.
I received several options/recommndations when I clicked on the icon
1.Buy a legitimate copy of XP pro and install
2.Purchase a windows genuine advantage kit and install OR just purchase a valid 25 character key. Options here included purchasing a key alone, an XP cd or both. I chose to purchase both. Cost was something like US$149 and that included shipping to the Caribbean.
All I had to do after that was go to microsoft's site and there is a programme to download to change the key. I received my hard copy cd by mail and my 25 character key via e-mail. I could either reinstall XP with the cd or use the downloaded programme to change the key which I did. I had It took like less than 3 minutes. Everything works fine. No problems. This is the easiest thing to do.
3.Another option as mentioned by other members is to contact microsoft and state your case. It is very likely that they will either send you a valid key free of charge or at a reduced price.
Hope this helps.
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