what OS to use?

tickman

can anyon help please, i have been given an old laptop :j (toshiba sp6000) and want to get it set up, it has a windows xp code sticker on it but i have discovered the xp it is running is pirate! :mad:
obviously i cannot get upgrades, is it possible to input the code to re register, (do not have a disc) or should i use a different OS.
how do i download and what OS is reliable?
i have only ever used windows but am willing to try any that come recommended.

tickman.

Mr_Skint_2

I would use XP home edition, you can get this on ebay very cheaply,
as youve just had the laptop I take it you have no important files on it
so a fresh install would be best, just insert the XP disc in the PC restart it
and boot from disc when asked, also you might need some more drivers i.e
Display, Audio etc etc, These can be gained from the net so no major worries there then

tickman

i had a look on ebay and found it a little concerning as you can buy xp for £10 so obviously a copy. what do i need, some come as a disc from a manufacturer not microsoft, do these still work or should i avoid these.
i have heard of `linux` is this an option or would you recommend just to stick to xp?

Mr_Skint_2

OEM is fine there is, as long as you register the disk with Microsoft at no cost
a copy just on blank media is a no no, like a copied CD..

Mr_Skint_2

gizmoleeds wrote:

Wouldn't a copy be okay if she used it with the (legitimate) code from the bottom of her laptop?

I can't see any reason why it wouldn't be as Microsoft are very specific in insisting they are selling the "licence" not the "media", so surely it should work the other way round?

Ah you have to get a OEM or full Genuine as they come with a license key
a copy will have a license key but will already be licensed by another user.

So Microsoft can find out this and wont register the copy for you
and after 30days XP will expire.

tickman

gizmoleeds wrote:

Wouldn't a copy be okay if she used it with the (legitimate) code from the bottom of her laptop?

I can't see any reason why it wouldn't be as Microsoft are very specific in insisting they are selling the "licence" not the "media", so surely it should work the other way round?

what do you mean "her" i should take that as an insult, but won`t!
apparently microsoft have several versions of xp professional which the code on the bottom is for, and you would require the correct disc. eg, dell have one set, pc world have a different set etc. or at least a bloke in a local shop told me. they use dell release (tried this on the toshiba and it says the key is incorrect)

tickman.