WinXP install with new certificate to replace pirated.

My son received a computer from a friend. It had winxp pro installed. He was going through the updates and discovered that the xp version was probably pirated. Before calling me he already bought a new certificate from Microsoft for $150. I would have advised him to go purchase a new cd. The computer runs horrible and I want to reinstall windows XP pro. I understand that I can do a new install with my cd and when it comes time to activate (can't activate mine), we would call microsoft (give them my son's new code) and they can activate the new install. Has anyone done this and is it that easy? Would have been easier to buy the cd instead of just buying a code with no cd to do fresh installs. Couldn't find any similiar info doing a search. Thanks

 

That would work IF your CD and his license are for the same version.
XP Professional has a few CD types:

OEM - A cheaper version to be installed only on one computer, non-transferrable

Retail - A more expensive version that can work on any number of computers, so long as it is only on one at a time. It can be transferred to another computer by formatting the first.

Upgrade - A cheaper version that requires proof of ownership of a qualifying Microsoft product for installation.

Generally when you try to activate a bad product key (there will be one in your system registry, most likely), you will get a prompt to change the product key. Failing that, yes, microsoft can help out. I can't say I've ever had to go so far, though.

Questionable - I've never seen product keys sold without media..........

 

Microsoft sold him the certificate. His version is winxp pro sp1. I have a retail version winsp pro sp2. I understand that you can install it (not activate it) Microsoft would activate at their end just like they did with whatever illegal copy was on his computer. They made his copy legal, but no cd to do fresh installs.

 

Well, service pack doesn't tie into the version... any legit copy is allowed to get the SP2 patch.

If he has a retail product key, then you can use your CD, despite having a later service pack.

 

Thanks. I would use my retail version and enter his cd code when requested, is this correct? Sounds easier than calling Microsoft that's for sure.

 

Yeah, no harm in giving it a go. If it's a product key for a different version, it'll let you know. Just be sure to act on it in a timely fashion (Something like 30 days), if it does go wrong.

 

Yeah I would plan on activating right away upon installation so I am not rushed for time. Thanks for your help.