XP Install

[Firstmate]

I wanted to install XP on my laptop that currently has Ubuntu (I decided to just go with XP). My main comp has XP, and I was wondering if I can register the newly installed XP with a registration key from my main computer, if that makes any sense.

1.) Is that possible, if so, where can I get one of these XP CD's, once again this is a comp. that came with the OS. And its so old, I don't know if I can get a CD.
2.) Where do you find that 'key' thing?

Also, do I have to do some partition stuff? Maybe use a boot CD like hirens, to delete/create or w/e a partition. I'm unfamiliar with partition details, so if I do have to end up doing that, can someone help me with that?

[prashanthpai]

You can ask your laptop vendor if there is any downgrade option to get a licensed copy of XP. Most of the manufacturers allow this & you may have that option.

If you get a genuine XP bundled with your main computer, you are licensed to use that copy of XP only with that machine. And it's not legal to use the same product key in your laptop. You can get the XP CD from the hardware vendor from whom you bought that main computer. When you paid for the main computer, it included the cost of XP. And the XP CD that they give you may be a customised OEM copy with drivers integrated - so it may not work for your laptop.

BTW, There are several softwares using which you can find your product key :
http://magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder/
http://www.winkeyfinder.com/winkeyfinder-news/winkeyfinder.php
http://www.rockxp.org/

Warning: Many of these software are capable of changing product key which you don't need.
So use these only to view the product key.

[Firstmate]

Thing is it currently has Ubuntu, so idk how downgrade would work, unless I show my laptop receipt and maybe a specs that show it came with Vista.

But from what I understand from that, I'd only be able to get a XP install CD, but it wouldn't be registered?

[prashanthpai]

still you are entitled to the downgrade option.

And your XP CD will be registered or MS/vendor will provide a product key.
OEM CDs do not require activation.

And i forgot to tell that downgrade option is only for Vista Business and Ultimate Editions. And I am not sure about this though.

Here are some examples of downgrade option from various vendors :
http://asia.cnet.com/crave/2007/09/24/downgrade-your-vista-to-xp/
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss/VSTA-DWNGRD.html
http://www.theinquirer.net/gb/inquirer/news/2008/04/14/dell-offers-windows-xp
http://news.cnet.com/The-XP-alternative-for-Vista-PCs/2100-1016_3-6209481.html

[Firstmate]

Wow, well thanks, at first I didn't believe you, honestly :D
But, I didn't know vista put that in their terms, guess I have to go hit up Circuit City soon, and get it.

My honest opinion about Ubuntu, its hard to begin with, but it seems that one you get the hang of it, it seems easy to use. But I personally think Linux is really for people who run servers.

Well my sister is having hardware issues, so I can just ask for it then.