Re install Windows

[BostonMike]

Trying to help a friend reformat computer. It did not come with a install cd. One of these machines that gives the opportunity to create a recovery disk when you buy it but she never did.
It's a Media Center Edition. I do not have a MCE cd. My question is, Can I use an XP pro cd? Will the serial number on the side of the box work?

 

[nickbits]

I don't think it will work. Plus she would lose everything extra in media center edition since that stuff isn't on the normal XP install disk.

 

[GaryJohnson]

No. There are many different types of XP disks (like 30+) and a key only works with a specific type.

 

[BostonMike]

Don't care about losing anything. Media center, documents, etc. does not matter. I just want a working xp OS. Will the key work?

 

[BostonMike]

Ok GaryJohnson, I guess that answers my question. Thanks.

 

[lxskllr]

Just to confirm, I've tried it, and it definitely doesn't work. Your best bet is to find an oem copy from the same maker. Maybe one of your peers has one you can borrow.