Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (
More info?)
Raving Lunatic wrote:
> Ok I have a pirated copy of XP Pro. I wish to go legit and buy it outright.
> I don't want to re-install, so will I be able to simply change the product
> key and be OK?
> Thanks much,
>
> Jimmy John Jacob JS
>
>
I commend you for your decision. Unfortunately, I'm afraid it's not
quite as easy as simply changing the Product Key. Product Keys are
bound to the specific type and language of CD/license (OEM, Volume,
retail, full, or Upgrade) with which they are purchased. For example, a
WinXP Home OEM Product Key won't work for any retail version of WinXP
Home, or for any version of WinXP Pro, and vice versa. An upgrade's
Product Key cannot be used with a full version CD, and vice versa. An
OEM Product Key will not work to install a retail product. An Italian
Product Key will not work with an English CD. Bottom line: Product Keys
and CD types cannot be mixed & matched.
You'll need to use your _legitimate_ full retail copy of WinXP Pro to
perform a repair (a.k.a. in-place upgrade) installation, using the new
CD and Product Key.
How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/directory/article.asp?ID=KB;EN-US;Q315341
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