HELP! I've lost my XP Pro CD!

[Timmy!!!]

Unfortunately I have completely lost my Windows XP Pro CD. I can't find it anywhere and my computer seriously needs a reformat. It is an OEM CD that I have bought.

Is there any way to get a spare CD from microsoft, or will they not be interested?

Correct me if I am wrong but isnt every XP Pro CD the same, so if possible someone with a Pro CD could copy it and send it to me (without their key, I still have that) Would this work?

If anyone would be kind enough to send me a copy of XP Pro, please email me for my address: timbohawker@btopenworld.com

Thanks everyone

[menthel]

I don't think so! Each copy is unique and only works with its own codes. Better watch out asking for illegal copies of stuff on here, its not looked upon kindly.

[ajbrun]

Unfortunately I have completely lost my Windows XP Pro CD. I can't find it anywhere and my computer seriously needs a reformat. It is an OEM CD that I have bought.

Is there any way to get a spare CD from microsoft, or will they not be interested?

Correct me if I am wrong but isnt every XP Pro CD the same, so if possible someone with a Pro CD could copy it and send it to me (without their key, I still have that) Would this work?

If anyone would be kind enough to send me a copy of XP Pro, please email me for my address: timbohawker@btopenworld.com

Thanks everyone

I'm certain microsoft won't be interested - how do they know you've really lost it and not just trying to get a free copy?

Also, you said about someone lending you a disk for which you have a key. There are 2 problems with this:

1. All CD keys are different - if they were the same, they'd be useless. Your CD key will only works on the disk you lost

2. I'm not sure, but I think if microsoft finds two versions of windows that are exactly the same trying to update themselves via the automatic update, then it will do something to make them BOTH not work.

I think your best bet would be to either find you disk, or buy a new one from somewhere (unless my advice is just wrong ).

[Timmy!!!]

I'm really sorry if it appears i am asking for 'warez', im really not. So is every XP cd different then? That seems a bit odd as it would take microsoft ages to individually make every cd with its own code.

Sigh, it looks like ill have to buy another copy of XP then

[menthel]

Its all automated. It is all part of protecting bill gates billions!

[nichomach]

The CDs aren't different; only the activation codes are. If you have an OEM copy, you should have a sticker provided with it with the serial number/activation code. THAT'S different for every copy. So if someone can lend you a CD, your acdtivation code should work fine with it, assuming that the CD you're lent is the same version. I'd =help, but don't currently have a copy that I can send you. Sorry.

[Apex]

Once again people jump the gun over what the guy is asking for and he gets given some totally wrong advice too.

[Timmy!!!]

The CDs aren't different; only the activation codes are. If you have an OEM copy, you should have a sticker provided with it with the serial number/activation code. THAT'S different for every copy. So if someone can lend you a CD, your acdtivation code should work fine with it, assuming that the CD you're lent is the same version. I'd =help, but don't currently have a copy that I can send you. Sorry.

So does this mean any XP Pro CD that I try will work with my product key? Or will it only work with some?

If I do end up paying for another XP Pro, what do you think about getting a 'used' copy of XP at amazon.co.uk. Are these legal versions of XP?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/...266133-3855811

[Apex]

any xp pro cd will work with your product key

tbh all that ms care about is that you have the product key.

[nichomach]

^yep^

[Timmy!!!]

any xp pro cd will work with your product key

tbh all that ms care about is that you have the product key.

Hopefully I wont have to buy another copy then! If anyone would be kind enough to copy their Pro CD and send it to me I would greatly appreciate it. I have my own key so activation is not a problem, and it wont affect you in any way because all Pro CD's are the same anyway.

I am not trying to get free software to anyone that thinks I am, I did buy a copy of Pro, but ive lost the dam cd!

Please email me for my address if you wouldnt mind sending me the cd(I live in England): timbohawker@btopenworld.com

Thanks for all your replies everyone

[directhex]

OEM, Retail, OEM SP1, Retail SP1, OEM SP2, Retail SP2, Corporate, Corporate SP1 and Corporate SP2 all use different keys. Different language versions of the above also all have different keys.

and used OEM copies aren't legal, used Retail versions (where it can be proved it's not on the original machine anymore) are.

[directhex]

if in doubt, ring microsoft tech support - though if you had OEM, they probably don't want to speak to you

[Nox]

if you have a key, have you tried contacting microsoft? I bet they get this every day and must have some process for sending out replacement cd's (to cover the damaged ones) it may cost you, but i'd be suprised if they won't send you a replacement CD. Saying that, if its an oem cd, they probably won't be interested, have you tried the company you bought it from? I know its a bit dodge, but it may be worth saying 'you never sent me a win xp oem cd when i bought the pc, only just noticed as i've not needed it before' and they then may be able to sort you out... depends on comapny and thier aftersales.

At the end of the day, you have your license agreement and it is 100% LEGAL for you to use a copy of windows registered to yourself.

Nox

[Stoo]

Yup, if you have a legit licence then all you have to do is call up and ask for a new cd, all you should need to do is tell the bod your info and the product key and they should be able to verify your records and send you a new disc out (You might also get the advantage (??) of SP2 being integrated on the disc)

[Apex]

disadvantage you mean.....