Hi,

Bought my computer already loaded with (genuine) Windows XP. Unfortunately had a problem & needed to do a clean install. As I don't have a CD, borrowed someone elses. Worked fine, but at the bottom of the startup page it says 'This copy of Windows is not Genuine!' and then comes up with a window to 'get genuine'. Can I get rid of these annoying messages??

From the Microsoft website:

Every time that a notification appears, you can choose to receive detailed information about the specific validation failure. The information includes the steps that you can take to resolve the problem.

Description of the Windows Genuine Advantage Notifications application

Thankyou. But I know what happens. I want it not to. I don't want to buy another copy of the program.

I cannot tell you how to bypass the WGA, as it is against forum rules mate...

PCHF Rules.

Indeed, we cannot help you getting past this error.

The only way to solve this matter is by doing a complete reinstall of windows, preferabelly the one that was installed on your computer before. You should in every case have a valid cd key. If you cannot activate that key, you can contact Microsoft, and they'll reset your key-counter to 0 so you can activate your windows. There's no other way unfortunatelly.

Thanks for your time guys, sorry to ask an 'illegal' question! I feel it's not fair that to be ligit I'd have to buy a new copy when the original was legit but I somehow messed it up... but that's not your problem.

Loosie,

On the side, top or bottom of your system there should be a Windows key code sticker. That code will also identify the exact version of Windows that is licensed to your system. You can borrow an OEM (not retail) CD of the same version as the Key Code and use it to format & install - be sure to use your key code when you install.

That will resolve your issue Legally and without requiring that you purchase a Windows CD/license.