[RobTi]

Hi need to get a windows os for niece (hard drive failed) and no xp key.

So if I get her a upgrade from the students discount site can I do a clean install

Thanks

[maf1970]

No, according to info you must be in possession of a legit licence for XP to use the upgrade disk.
Windows 7 - Software 4 Students
For Windows 7 you really need to run the upgrade compatability tool to verify that all the hardware is OK. I'm surprised that you don't have a COA on the machine. What make and model is it ?

[RobTi]

Asus aspire it had xp home on it and she didn't back up.

Her sister has the same but changed to mint so could I use that key, and how to Di an upgrade on a new drive

Thanks

[maf1970]

Wouldn't that be an Acer Aspire ? So who is using the XP code just now ?

[RobTi]

Yes you are correct its an acer, it was bough either second or third hand so no details if the original owner.

It had a sticker on the side but she has peeled it off.

So as her sister has the same type and now uses linux thought i could use her key, as both were xp home

[LJx]

I would use Windows 8, it's free and when the time comes I think you can upgrade it to full version for $40

[RobTi]

But can this work on a clean drive

[LJx]

yes it can it's free for anyone to try I think Windows 8 Release Preview ISO formats

[EndlessWaves]

Originally Posted by LJx

yes it can it's free for anyone to try I think Windows 8 Release Preview ISO formats

It'll also be disabled in a few months requiring you to go through all this again.