Quick & easy XP Question

[aeronauticsrock]

I need to reformat a computer with XP. The specs are:

Celeron M 1.4 GHz
1 GB RAM

Im planning on putting XP on it. The computer is liscensed to run XP- it came with it and there is a product key on the bottom.

Is there any legal way to do this? I want to completely reformat and start over... but I dont have any disks.

Can I DL XP from MS? I mean I have the key... just not the software.

Gotta keep it on the up and up!

THANKS!!

 

[Brink]

Hello Aeronauticsrock,

Most OEM computers will have a D: recovery partition that can be used to do a factory restore of the OS. What brand and model is your computer? I may be able to find the instructions and your computer manufacturer's website for detailed instructions on how to do it for you.

Hope this helps for now,
Shawn

 

[aeronauticsrock]

Thanks for the answer.

Sadly theres no recovery partition- that woulda been nice and easy!

Its a Compaq V2000

Is this an option at all? I have a recovery DVD (well a set of 2) from a HP a1010n Desktop.

Would it work to use these DVDs to just install XP? Or could I just use them normally?

 

[Brink]

Sorry, but no. A OEM OS can only be installed on the exact same computer that it was originally installed on.

Other than trying to find a retail or OEM copy of XP to purchase somewhere, you might see if you can get or order a replacement from Compaq (HP).

 

[DocBrown]

I found Compaq install recovery CD's on eBay for my used Compaq 2100 Laptop

 

[12eason]

The license is attached to the product code, not the disk. Downloading an oem disk from a torrent and using your own key could easily fall under fair use.

Failling that though, you can request replacement disks from your oem.