I have the install disk and "product key" to Win XP. How do I re-install WinXP to another computer when it is registered on a computer that has been stolen?
JS
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when you try to install the key (assuming you have the product key written down) you can install an oem version of the disc using that key. When you go to activate it will probably fail. There will be a number for microsoft you can call and explain the situation. They may in their infinate wisdom allow you to activate that anyway. I don't know if they will disable the stolen one but I've done this before and they manually bypassed the install for me. I'm sure it's on a case by case basis so it's worth a shot.
OEM what is that ??
This whole thing does not make sense to me.
What if the computer dies. Do I send the dead parts to microsoft?
I am in Panama and am not looking forward to "calling" Microsoft.
Maybe an email would work.
The theives will most likely format the HD's and install something else. What then?
JS
I understand how frustrating this situation must be for you. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. It means the builder of your system bought the license from Microsoft to accompany a specific computer system. Retail means you bought the OS license from a store for your computer. I have been in your shoes, except not outside the US. Email may work, but usually you have to talk to someone. Fortunately, the activation line for XP does not usually have a hold time so the call may only take a few minutes, which would be less expensive than buying a new XP license.
Travis
Hate to be a Devils advocate but reality is if the software came on the computer (OEM) its part of the computer. If you purchased it retail then its yours and you can move it to a new computer. MAy have to convince MS that you are just moving it . but you have a valid case I think. I noticed your other post here and would like to offer you some advice.
http://www.consumer.gov/id
this site outlines what to do in the event you loose your laptop. I have a friend who has been a victim of ID theft and it isnt pretty. he had to reestablish credit, re-do his drivers license even had to sell items that were sent to him from e-bay....
if you havent already read up on what to do this is a good place to start.. believe me loosing your hard drive may be your least worry...
Good Luck. and I hope they were stupid hardware theves.....Wiping your hard drive and putting on a new OS would bea favour to you!
Surly
surly,
I am not undrestanding the concern about "info" on my "desktop" computer. I know I am nieve about such things>
I live in Panama and do not have a credit card or credit accounts. My bank is a Fed Credit union in the states
and I need to enter an account # and a pin number. What am I missing here?
The WinXP did not come with the computer. It is a Dell year 2000. Was WinMe OS.
JS
FYI
registration and activation are seperate procedures,
registration is optional and requires submitting your information to microsoft regarding the product (your XP, in this case)
activation is required (except in circumstances like a business version or branded oem's that lock the installation to that PC)
activation is simply a method in which microsoft attempts to verify the OS is legitimate--no personal info is transmitted
microsoft will surely allow you to use your installation, as it is legitimate.
Business Accounts
Answer for Membership
by: maramomPosted on 2006-03-03 at 06:41:54ID: 16094712
if the XP is oem, the OS technically belongs to the 'stolen' system.
if it's retail, the license is transferable.
either way, when it is time to activate, you'll most likely need to call MS, and you can explain your situation.