Re: Installing windows xp when i have the key but not the CD

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Lee wrote:
I have a Lenovo notebook and the windows key is on the sticker on the bottom. I want to no a fresh build but I can not find the windows XP install disk. I do however have other windows XP CDs from other computers. Can I use one of these other CDs but the key off the lenovo copy to rebuild the laptop?

Have you verified that Lenovo does not put a Restore Partition on the drive for you and or some "build restore cd's" item in the menu?

See here: http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss/document.do?lndocid=MIGR-4VFUDU

I just finished burning 3 DVD's for a friend with an HP laptop and it has a "build restore cd" item on the menu and you have to do it before you blow the drive.

If not you cannot mix and match OS's and CD's. They go together by type:
XP home
XP pro
XP home OEM
XP pro OEM
.......


The worst is OEM's sometimes will marry the CD to the motherboard meaning for me, I have to have a DELL OEM Cd or I can't load it on my dell. Other than drivers, you probably could use a retail CD and key to reload if you have to.
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