How do I re-install XP

[ayabrea38]

Just got a second hand pc with XP on it,as OEM but no disk.The tower has a serial number on the side for XP.Thing is what happens if I have to format the hard drive?How do I get XP and the programmes that came with it back(Powerpoint and Office mainly)That was the main reason I bought the pc was to help the kids with their schoolwork and it seemed a bargain,compaired to buying XP and all the other programmes.
I know formatting is a fairly drastic thing to have to do,but as it has happened in the past to my present pc,I would like to know where I stand.
Thanks everyone.

[ayabrea38]

Moral of the lesson is....
When you phone up and ask if there is a serial number,specify which flippin number.
If I had known the label had been ripped off,for whatever reason,I may not of bought it.
Live and learn.
Crickey,I've a hell of a lot of living to do then

[dizmouk2009]

Was it ripped off when you received it?

[ChuckFickens]

OK retrieving the current key as per Diz's last post is actually what I would do at home, I would not do it at work as it would leave you on very dodgy ground on a legal standpoint (but as a general rule people are not audited, companies are)

if you still have some of the actual key number on the sticker you can also feel fairly safe that the sticker has been destroyed so nobody else will ever use it.

[ayabrea38]

yep.Maybe even when the guy who sold it me got it,it was second hand to him.And no,it wasnt from a druggie in the pub! ;-)

[logic]

hey guys,
I'm no expert with pooters by any means,

BUT, isn't it reasonable to assume that if The computer is not going to be connected to the internet, it doesn't really matter about the legality of the o/s, ?

[LeMarchand]

"BUT, isn't it reasonable to assume that if The computer is not going to be connected to the internet, it doesn't really matter about the legality of the o/s, ? "

By that "logic" if I steal someone's car and only drive it somewhere will no-one will ever see it, what does it matter?

Besides, they'll need net access for homework.

I'd retrieve the key using a program similar to the above, but don't be surprised if it's been re-used.

[logic]

Not the same thing LeMarchand,
if some one has a spare car and gives it to you, that would be fine,
I have a couple of redundant XP cd's that came with machines that i have now binned,
If i gave them to some one, I see no harm in that,
The poster stated that the computer would not be connected to the internet,

[LeMarchand]

Sorry, I didn't spot the second post about "no net use required" (though I think the OP is a bit out of touch with homework requirements). As for loaning cars etc, that is totally different. You said, "BUT, isn't it reasonable to assume that if The computer is not going to be connected to the internet, it doesn't really matter about the legality of the o/s" - in other words you think that if there's little chance of being caught, then why worry about the law. Have I mis-read that?

[logic]

No
Lemarchand, you read it correctly, but, be honest, if you were using an old p/c yourself, and not wanting internet, would you go and buy a new O/S, ? I know i wouldn't, I would use LINUX first, or even an old 98 system.

[S_C]

Double check this but if my info is coorect going to the cd drive windows, options, cabs foulder you should have a setup program to reinstall windows .
however the office software will be lost when this done .. but that is not a total loss as there is free office software that is compatible with microsoft office .. its called open office and can easily be found online.

as long as you use a decent antivirus and firewall , you should never need to format your disc .. remember all info on a disc will be lost if formated .

legally the operating system that was gotten with the pc , unless bought seperately was issued under licence for that machine only. " and if sold the software should be removed " but honestly how many people actualy delete is questionable ".

if you check on ebay you will see many people seeling microsoft windows installation disc's. just make sure they come with product key.