Reinstalling Windows?

[AlexK]

I am about to reinstall Windows XP and Vista because they are not booting. They are both retail versions, not OEM. When I format the drive (without deactivating the version of Windows), will I be able to enter that same CD key that was just formatted for a new installation, or do I have to deactivate my first installs?

[LindsayG0444]

You don't have to deactive it, once you format it and reinstall windows, does use the key you used before. I've done it tons of times, with no problems.

[jtaber791869]

Yes. You can re-use your product keys for re-installation.Deactivation of either product is not required.

[TomS]

Use the same key for XP. You may have to re-register Vista. Good luck...

[DavidP]

if you are simply installing over the top of existing installs, you will have to input your keys, but not activate, if you format drives etc, then yes you will have to input key and activate the installs............

[softballho]

there is a better way to reinstall windows vista I've done it and it works ... Read article in link below and follow instructions vista runs better for me after this install....

[hGlass]

Hi there.
I know that it's too late to ask about this but I'm curious.
So I bought an ASUS laptop almost four years ago. And it has official Vista soft. We tried to change it for XP but no matter how hard we tried to reinstall the system it wouldn't work. Please, tell me why?