ME key - but no disc

[Slogan]

What is the best way to get around this?

I installed XP on an ancient Packard Bell and it is as slow as anything - nowhere near the performance to that of it's previous ME os.

So, I have a key on the side of the case but no cd.

General question - is it illegal to obtain the software of an OS on a disc even though you have the legit cd-key and have paid for the software?

 

[Burnsy2023]

Generally, and don't take this as gospel, yes it is legal.

You pay for the right to use the software under terms of the software license and generally the media allows you to do this.

All licenses are different, but most don't have specific clauses to prevent this.

Burnsy

 

[bledd]

do these things..

turn off system restore
install sp2
go into System Properties, adavnced, settings, adjust for best performance
DONT install norton..
use nod32 or kasersky, they're the quickest and least resource hogging
use windows xpsp2 firewall (in control panel) and not a 3rd party one.

might need to add more ram, xp runs sluggish with less than 256mb

512mb for good performance

i run a mp3/web browser pc, thats a pii400, 384mb, 40gb drive
runs no problem

hard drive speed might be a factor