SP1a

[Tamara]

I had my computer built with XP Pro installed, after
trying to install the updates I got the message couldn't
install, the serial number is invalid. I've found that
the version of XP Pro is a bootleg copy but the serial
number is correct. I've considered purchasing the upgrade
to gain access but my question is can I put it on my
laptop as well and receive the updates or Is their
another way to get the updates without purchasing the
product? Any help would be greatly appreciated just
consider I'm not a computer wiz.

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Tamara;
No;
In order to use it, you must buy it like the rest of us.
Also the retail license like all other previous Microsoft consumer OS
is one license for one computer.
If you want it on two computers, you need to buy two copies.

Does it fit this:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q326904
If it does, you most likely have a pirated Windows XP Pro.
If it is pirated, you need to contact the seller and/or Microsoft:
http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/reporting/default.asp
One of the features of Service Pack 1 is to detect pirated copies of
windows XP.
Also you have 3 options to become legal:
1. Go back to the previous OS:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;303661
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;314052
This may or may not work depending on the installation options used.
2. Perform a Clean Install with the OS of your choice destroying ALL
data.
3. Purchase Windows XP Pro (Home will not work) and perform a Repair
Installation using the new valid key and CD:
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_repair_install.htm

--
Jupiter Jones [MVP]
An easier way to read newsgroup messages:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/using/newsgroups/setup.asp
Please respond to newsgroup only for everyone's benefit.


"Tamara" > wrote in message
...
> I had my computer built with XP Pro installed, after
> trying to install the updates I got the message couldn't
> install, the serial number is invalid. I've found that
> the version of XP Pro is a bootleg copy but the serial
> number is correct. I've considered purchasing the upgrade
> to gain access but my question is can I put it on my
> laptop as well and receive the updates or Is their
> another way to get the updates without purchasing the
> product? Any help would be greatly appreciated just
> consider I'm not a computer wiz.