Factory Restores: how can you tell which files are the original ones?

Kernel_Sanders

I've just inherited another XP desktop system, which is running slow despite a RAM upgrade to 1GB. I want to do a factory restore, as all personal docs were removed and I have service packs and other essential programmes on an SD card ready to install. I have all the original recovery disc stuff, so won't need to back up. However, it occurred to me that the copy of MS Office installed on the machine might have been purchased post-sale. Can I ascertain this one way or the other, and if not, how do I back up or save a copy of this one programme?

Slowhand

I'm thinking it's not yours to have.

Kernel_Sanders

Slowhand wrote: »

I'm thinking it's not yours to have.

It was passed to me by my brother, who had it from new and retained all the purchase documentation.

NiftyDigits

Ascertain the version, back up the Product key using Belarc or similar. Reinstall by using genuine software from an appropriate source and applying the product key.

Kernel_Sanders

NiftyDigits wrote: »

Ascertain the version, back up the Product key using Belarc or similar. Reinstall by using genuine software from an appropriate source and applying the product key.

I presume you are saying that MS Office has its own product key and that I can use it to download a fresh copy from MS. Will this key be on the paper documentation?

bod1467

Edited - the link I posted was just to addons etc. for MS Office.

grumpycrab

Kernel_Sanders wrote: »

I presume you are saying that MS Office has its own product key and that I can use it to download a fresh copy from MS. Will this key be on the paper documentation?

If you haven't got the Office disk you should be able to download the ISO of the same. You don't need the key to do this. You need the key to use it though.
If you cannot find the key on paper or clicking "about" in Office itself, Belarc may tell you what it is.
What exact version of Office is it?

NiftyDigits

Kernel_Sanders wrote: »

I presume you are saying that MS Office has its own product key and that I can use it to download a fresh copy from MS. Will this key be on the paper documentation?

Your source will depend on the version of Office and I have no idea as to what will be on the documentation.

Kernel_Sanders

It's got MS Office Excel, Word, Onenote, Powerpoint (all 2007), Tools, Live Update, Live Addin and Help. There's no paper product key and IDK where to look for it (there's no name on the Digital Certificate creation tool).

victor2

You'll need the CD Key supplied with the original MS Office discs, usually on a sticker on the DVD envelope.
If you don't have it, google for jelly bean keyfinder for a utility which will tell you. It will also tell you the version of Office you have installed. If you don't have them, you'll need to obtain the DVD(s) or download the ISO(s) for that same version.

Kernel_Sanders

I've just run Belarc. Would this be it? (x = a numeral)
Microsoft - Office Home and Student 2007 816xx-9xx-3xx83583-xx787 (Key: RQ8FQ- + 4 similar sequences)
I've made a screenprint of all the licences listed and put it on an SD card. Is it OK to factory restore now, and will it take more than a few minutes (have to go out soon).