Need to install a legit win XP Pro for future upgrades

Just got back from the shop that I got my computer from and I explained that
the Windows validation utility says that my copy is not valid. The owner
agreed to give me a new Win XP Pro package...my question is..

Is there a way I can install this over my current XP Pro install without
formatting the drive and have the valid cd key etc. on my computer properly
or do I have to start from scratch?

If this isn't the right group to ask this please direct me to the proper
one!

Thanks,
Bob

Boot from the 'new' XP CD and do a repair install - you will enter the key
code and be fine.

"Bob" <> wrote in message
news:...
> Just got back from the shop that I got my computer from and I explained
> that the Windows validation utility says that my copy is not valid. The
> owner agreed to give me a new Win XP Pro package...my question is..
>
> Is there a way I can install this over my current XP Pro install without
> formatting the drive and have the valid cd key etc. on my computer
> properly or do I have to start from scratch?
>
> If this isn't the right group to ask this please direct me to the proper
> one!
>
> Thanks,
> Bob
>

Can I also do a repair install from Windows with the new CD instead of
booting form it ?
Thanks,
Bob
"Jerry" <> wrote in message
news:...
> Boot from the 'new' XP CD and do a repair install - you will enter the key
> code and be fine.
>
> "Bob" <> wrote in message
> news:...
>> Just got back from the shop that I got my computer from and I explained
>> that the Windows validation utility says that my copy is not valid. The
>> owner agreed to give me a new Win XP Pro package...my question is..
>>
>> Is there a way I can install this over my current XP Pro install without
>> formatting the drive and have the valid cd key etc. on my computer
>> properly or do I have to start from scratch?
>>
>> If this isn't the right group to ask this please direct me to the proper
>> one!
>>
>> Thanks,
>> Bob
>>
>
>