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Simon Robert wrote: > If a windows key is needed can't one just wander into PC world and copy > one from the side of a PC? It won't impact on whoever ends up buying the > PC, I've used the key from the side of an old XP box several times. It > always passes the "genuine advantage" test. > > S > Nope because these keys no longer work. Believe it or not, you have to use a specific installation disc which is BIOS locked to the PC (or at least to the manufacturer of the PC). I had this issue with a standard OEM disc on my other half's IBM laptop. I could install XP Home but the license key wasn't accepted. However after adding the OEM files to the disc I was able to make an IBM Windows XP Home installation disc which did work which in turn didn't ask for a license key. I think the only way you'd be able to get away with it would be with an OEM sticker from a smaller system builder which also uses BIOS locked discs but a valid key. I had this on a system once, the BIOS was locked into the installation of Windows but on updating the BIOS on the motherboard it lost the codes which enabled the BIOS lock. Fortunately in this case the OEM key on the case wasn't pre-activated and did work. I think in a way it's Microsoft's way of trying to cut down on piracy and screw over the customer at the same time. It is possible to get around, for instance it is possible to get backed BIOS images for various motherboards so they can be used with Dell/HP/Asus etc copies of XP and Vista and pass the Genuine Windows check. (A google search for SLIC BIOS will probably throw up something or other on the subject). Rob -- The Mailing List for the Devon & Cornwall LUG http://mailman.dclug.org.uk/listinfo/list FAQ: http://www.dcglug.org.uk/linux_adm/list-faq.html