Computer Guys: Windows XP question
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Better Than Canada!
Joined: Dec 2002
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From: Baltimore, MD
Computer Guys: Windows XP question
Hypothetically, if I have two computers...one is a dell and came with windows XP and the other I built myself and doesn't have a legit copy of windows. Can I somehow change my windows serial number in the registry to the one that came with the Dell and not use the Dell anymore? Or will it somehow realize that it's not a Dell and cause problems?
Duh
Joined: May 2002
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From: Southside foo!!
I don't think it'd work since I believe since it's not going by the SN in the registry but but the BIOS recognition to see if it has dell hardware or not. :dunno: I never tried a Dell copy so I have no diea.
The Installtion Key is unique, and will only work for that copy of windows only, so you don't need to change it.
If Dell gave you a full Retail copy of Windows XP and Not their version of recovery disc then it would work since Windows Copy doesn't have anything else to it BUT its own key to recognize by.
The Installtion Key is unique, and will only work for that copy of windows only, so you don't need to change it.
If Dell gave you a full Retail copy of Windows XP and Not their version of recovery disc then it would work since Windows Copy doesn't have anything else to it BUT its own key to recognize by.
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Better Than Canada!
Joined: Dec 2002
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From: Baltimore, MD
Originally Posted by [Damnit]
u can use both, just DO NOT go to the windows update site or any windows site on the other comp cuz they will see different IPs.
i dunno if taking that key will work but it should (where is that anyways?)
i dunno if taking that key will work but it should (where is that anyways?)
where is what? The key? Printed on a sticker on the side of the Dell.
Anyway does anyone know if there is a program that will change my windows key for me....or can somone at least tell my what and where the registry keys are to change.
Senior Member
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usually, like H-Accord-22 said, when you buy a dell the windows version they send you in not a regular full version so if you try to install it on another pc you simply cant unless its another dell, it just will not even let you complete the installation of windows. i do not know the specifics of getting around this
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Originally Posted by [Damnit]
u can use both, just DO NOT go to the windows update site or any windows site on the other comp cuz they will see different IPs.
i dunno if taking that key will work but it should (where is that anyways?)
i dunno if taking that key will work but it should (where is that anyways?)
Floppy Death! noES!!!
Joined: Oct 2002
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From: Scranton, PA
Yes, you can change your key afterwards. But there are only 2 times when it would be needed.
1) You absolutly have to 100% no other option use windows update and you have to pass the stupid genuiine windows auth thing.
2) Microsoft is knocking on your door.
Other than that, nobody cares.
1) You absolutly have to 100% no other option use windows update and you have to pass the stupid genuiine windows auth thing.
2) Microsoft is knocking on your door.
Other than that, nobody cares.
