If you are getting the following error message when attempting to update:

Error Message: The Product Key Used to Install Windows Is Invalid
http://support.microsoft.com/default...&Product=winxp

You'll have to purchase a new "Full Version" of Windows XP Professional
and perform a "Repair Install" using the new Windows XP Pro CD and Product Key
that comes with it. (You cannot simply change the Product Key)

How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Is your version of Windows XP genuine?
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/h...s/default.mspx

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows - Shell/User
Microsoft Community Newsgroups
news://msnews.microsoft.com/

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"gcube" wrote:

| I bought a laptop on ebay described as having XP installed with a COA. When
| I got it, I tried to validate the OS with MS. As you have probably guessed,
| MS responded with a message saying that MS did not recognize the installation
| as legitimate.
|
| My questions is: Can I buy an OEM version and use the licence number on it
| to legalize the installation on the laptop, or do I have to reinstall from
| the OEM CD?
|
| Thanks.