Laptop OS

[Mattrod]

Hey, I recently got a laptop for college, its an HP with Xp pro preinstalled on it. I dont like how HP has all of this extra stuff installed, and ive tried many programs just as pcdecrapafier to clean up the system, but theres still so much excess. I was thinking about formatting and reinstalling XP, but i was wondering if i woudl be able to use the product key located on teh underside of my laptop? Also, Is it legal or should i say ethical to use someone elses xp disc to install the OS, but use my product key because i only have the oem version of xp home. Thanks for any help

[Panama Red]

You'll need an XP Pro disk or a Slipstream copy to do the reinstall and yes, you can use the same Product Key. You may have to call MS for activation but that's a minor issue. Might want to download all the drivers first, especially the lan/nic driver so you can get online right away and do all the Windows Updates.

[Mattrod]

Ok thanks, Is there a legitimate way to get an xp pro disc with no liscences just so i can install the operating system then use my code? Also should i be worried abotu any features of my laptop not working after the reinstall

[flanzig1]

Borrow an XP Pro install disc and use your code from the laptop. Can't use a name brand PC's recovery disc, it has to be a Microsoft XP Pro install disc. For the drivers, go to HP support and download the drivers for your exact model number.