Changing registration of Windows OEM type

[thevoid]

Hi, my computer has an OEM version of XP installed which is registered to the previous owner. Does anyone know whether or not I can re-register it in my name and, if so, how one would go about this?

 

The Microsoft website just takes my round in circles whilst not giving any particularly helpful information.

 

Thanks!

[RandyL]

Hi thevoid and welcome to the site;

I'm not sure I understand what you are asking. Are you asking if you need to re-activate Windows? If so then no unless you re-install. Even then that's not an issue.

 

If it's OEM then you shouldn't have to do anything as that's a matter between the owner and the manufacturer.

Unless it's a Dell ownership shouldn't be an issue when it comes to support unless it's a warranty issue.

 

There is no free support from Microsoft on Windows OEM so I don't understand the need if you are trying to register Windows.

 

Just trying to understand what it is you are asking.

RandyL

[thevoid]

Thanks, basically it's just that the copy (legal copy) of Windows which is installed on this computer is registered to the previous owner which means that this person's name is in my directory tree and I can't change it. Which is a bit annoying.

 

I bought it from an independant computer shop who must have built the computer (even though it looks to all intents and purposes like a Packard Bell laptop) and installed this copy of Windows on it. Or maybe they got some cheap laptops without any operating system and installed Windows themselves... ?

 

Paul.

[RandyL]

Hi again;

If all you want to do is change the computer name it is quite simple.

In my opinion though if you bought a used computer you should re-install and start clean.

Back-up your drivers and data first and be prepared for a loss of second hand programs.

 

RandyL

[thevoid]

Ok, thanks.