Help - illegal copy of Windows

[Guest]

Hi everyone
A friend of mine has just learned he has an illegal copy of Windows on his
system. Apparently the "kind" gentleman that sold him the computer
pre-installed an illegal copy of Windows! I'm trying to help him resolve this.

Here's my questions:
1) Has anyone tried to purchase a key code for $99 from Microsoft? I noticed
this is an option but was wondering how easy the whole process is?
2) My friend got a new boxed version of Windows for Christmas. Can we use
this to do an upgrade or do we need to do a total reinstall of Windows?

I'm looking for the cleanest way to do this.
Thanks.

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

If it is the full retail version, do a repair install..

http://www.michaelstevenstech.com

 

[Guest]

Hi Mike
Thanks!
Just to be sure . . . if we do a repair install I assume we will be prompted
to enter the Product Key code?
~ Kathy

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

That is the theory.. you may well be asked to activate over the telephone..
it is a free 5 minute process, and automated..

 

[Guest]

Thanks again Mike!
I'll see what happens.
Happy New Year!