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Question

How do I replace pirated XP with legal copy.

May 15, 2011 4:34PM PDT

I recently found out I had a pirated copy of Xp. It was psp3. However I managed to pick up a legal copy of XP Home Edition still in its original wrapping. It's my brother's unused one. He said he got two disks when he purchased XP. He's onto Windows 7 so doesn't need the spare.
Anyhow, my question. How do I install it. I have heaps of useful programs on this computer. Do I remove them to an external HD and then format this computer?
Any advice on how to start please?
I'm kinda looking forward to this because it should give me a chance to wipe any hidden spyware or viruses and fix what I suspect maybe corrupted files.

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Re: replacing XP
May 15, 2011 4:58PM PDT

You'll have to do a full clean install, including a format (part of the install). You'll have to reinstall all that useful programs from the original setup you used (or download a later version). And, of course, you'll have to make a copy of all data (documents, pictures, etc) you want to keep.

Be sure you've got all drivers!

Kees

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How do I replace pirated XP with legal copy.
May 15, 2011 6:26PM PDT

Thanks for that. Yes I have kept all drivers.
The version I have been given isXP Home Edition and includes service pack 2. Sounds like it would be going back in versions from my pirated copy of psp3. Hope that is no big deal.
I'll have a go this weekend and post back if I need more help.
I have been looking into Ubuntu the last few days and I am torn as to whether I might go that way. I am sick of worrying about getting viruses,spyware,malware, worms, trojans etc etc. Though the experience has taught me well it has also made me weary. Moan moan. Now would be the time to do it I suppose. Decisions decisions!

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BEFORE you wipe the drive ...
May 16, 2011 9:31AM PDT
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BEFORE you wipe the drive
May 28, 2011 7:49AM PDT

Thanks for the heads up on that.