Windows Lincense....

GuruJockStrap · 30 Mar 2006 at 15:47

Just recieved a Dell laptop and quite literally shocked at the amount of uselss software Dell installs.

First bootup had a load of useless software installed and around 59 running processes! :eek:

Really, I want to reformat the thing and put a fresh installation on there.

As I understand, the laptop has a hidden partition where the original image of the system is located. In the event of it going **** up, I can simply restore this image to the main partition.

Obviously this isn't what I want as I'm back to square one.

The OS is XP MCE and I can't simply use the install disk and format as I haven't been provided one by Dell.

What options have I got?

I've got an XP Home OEM original CD. Was used with my main system but since upgraded to Pro.

Can I install XP Home OEM and use the Dell license Key for activation? Or is that a definite no?

FrankJH · 30 Mar 2006 at 15:59

I reckon your idea wouldnt work as you would be using a XP Home CD with a XP Pro Licence and it wouldnt match up

If you dont have a friend with an OEM disc that you can borrow - and use your Dell Licence No, yur eitehr stuck with what you got or you have to buy an OEM disc for yourself ( ie therefore having two licences )

GuruJockStrap · 30 Mar 2006 at 16:09

Bah! Poo! Damn you Dell!

Brian Stuart · 30 Mar 2006 at 16:42

It would be quite permissable to download a copy of Win MCE, burn it to an ISO, and install it using the Dell license key. it is the license that is important not the disk. install disks only work with the equivelant license key, ie OEM disks need an OEM key etc. Hope this helps
Brian