I have an older computer for my kids. They load everything they can find on it and now it has become unstable. I would like to just start over by reloading the XP OS. The OS on the computer is what it came with and I have the disk that came with it as well. What I don't have is the product key. I'm afraid if I reformat the harddrive and start over that I will be unable to reload the OS without a valid key. Can anyone offer any information or best method to accomplish a rebuild?Thanks1 person needs an answerI do too

hello if your older computer computer is a branded computer ie: (hp compaq etc) and you have "all of the software" that came with then there is no problem ..as the code is in the disks... some have several disks preopperating, opperating system and add ons you can check with the mfgr they are the best source for that answer.. the best way of putting the computer as new is zero out the hd... free programs are available on line for this purposeIf this post helps to resolve your issue,Please click the Mark as Answered check mark on this page THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK