is it licensed?

[crittergeek928]

Hi all, I am kind of a novice repair person, for mostly family and close friends, and I have a question. I am working on a elderly woman's pc. It was built for her by another relative. In the process of cleaning it up, it is, of course asking for windows updates. I asked her if this was a licensed version of Windows, or if the builder copied a version. XP home edition, btw. How can I tell if it is legal? I'm reluctant to install the updates for fear I may make a bigger mess.
Thanks
Frasher

[Strider]

If it's a valid installation it should have a Product ID Number in Control - System Panel and windows update will work after it validates the OS, if it's not a valid installation it won't.

[Panama Red]

If you can download and install the updates without a notice of piracy, you're good to go.

[crittergeek928]

Originally Posted by Strider If it's a valid installation it should have a Product ID Number in Control - System Panel and windows update will work after it validates the OS, if it's not a valid installation it won't.

Is the product id number the same as the registered to number? That number is there. Can I cause any harm or further problems if I try to install updates, or will it just inform me that I cannot? I read somewhere online that you will constantly get messages after the fact, if you attempt to install updates to an unlicensed version.
Thanks
Frasher