Keith,

Did it come with an OS CD? If not, is it a "branded" machine? Branded
machines oftentimes don't come with CDs, but have hidden partitions on the
HDD with the OS on it.

If neither of the above applies, then indeed you do not have a legal OS. Go
to a reputable shop and buy a Full or OEM OS. OEM will legally require the
purchase of some hardware, but it can be something small/cheap like a mouse,
etc. as I currently understand the rules.

Beware of counterfeit software, there are tons of folks selling this for
unbelievable prices, because they aren't legit and they can get the CDs for
~$20 each. Real legit OEM OS or Office cost the dealer "real money", so they
can't give them away for dirt prices.

--

Regards,
Len Segal, MCP
Microsoft - MVP
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"Keith Runfola" wrote in message
...
Thanks everyone for your replies.
I'm still not clear on one thing.
I recently bought a nice used computer and I think the OS (XP pro)
may not be a legal copy. Certainly, it's not registered to me.
I want to go legit as cheaply as possible. So my question is:
Can I get an OEM CD that I can use to register or change whatever
registration I have now. I would need to do this without wiping out my
existing files. Also, I would like it if this CD would work as a
"re-install" disk in case XP ever goes south on me.
Thanks again,



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