Fuck Microsoft - a new thread

[Gromgor]

Ok. So. When my comp was built an illegal copy of Windows XP Pro was put on it. Due to me not having the registration code for the copy I was told that it's illegal ($10,000 fine) for any computer repair places to even check it out. It was suggested that I purchase a copy of Windows and then they would fix it.

I got smart and bought Windows 98. A LOT cheaper and will allow me to run virtually everything I need to run. I can upgrade later but I don't have the finances to get XP.

My problem is that everytime I try to do anything all I get is a notice window saying there's a DLL error. I can't format my HD. I can't get the disc to read. I can't do anything.

Is there a way to boot to DOS? Is there a way I can do anything without having to spend $75 for a tech to do it for me?

[Darion]

You know, I'm all for software piracy and against anti-piracy measures, but that's still pretty goddamn funny.

[Gromgor]

Were I not the one it was happening to I would fully agree. Since it's me though =(

Microsoft sucks. Big bunch of meanies.

[Zyth]

Yeah, there's a way, but hahahaha that will teach you to pirate the most fundamental piece of software on your entire computer! You were asking for trouble :-p

[Savaric]

Show'em the way Zyth.

[Gromgor]

Well. Thanks for the help with this. It's much appreciated. =)


And for the record I didn't install the pirated windows. The guy who built my system did. I'm just the one stuck with the fucked system.

[Rosuav]

Originally posted by Gromgor
Ok. So. When my comp was built an illegal copy of Windows XP Pro was put on it. Due to me not having the registration code for the copy I was told that it's illegal ($10,000 fine) for any computer repair places to even check it out. It was suggested that I purchase a copy of Windows and then they would fix it.

Okay. First off, this is a load of rubbish. There's no $10K fine for checking it out. It's not the repairer's business whether your software's licenced or not! But I gather you're now satisfied with W98 so the issue's gone.

I got smart and bought Windows 98. A LOT cheaper and will allow me to run virtually everything I need to run. I can upgrade later but I don't have the finances to get XP.

What kind of computer have you? I could probably sell you a secondhand OEM XP licence for way less than retail price. (No promises though - we might not have any available.)

My problem is that everytime I try to do anything all I get is a notice window saying there's a DLL error. I can't format my HD. I can't get the disc to read. I can't do anything.

Is there a way to boot to DOS? Is there a way I can do anything without having to spend $75 for a tech to do it for me?

Boot the computer, and just before the graphical Windows logo comes up, hit F8 a whole lot of times. You should get a menu that lets you choose Safe mode, and a few others including Command Line Only. But if you want to format the hard disk, your best bet is to boot a floppy/CD and do it from there - your Windows install disc should let you format before installing.

[kestra]

curious how I was able to buy pirated Office XP on Kaosan Road in Bangkok, and never had any troubles with mine.

[Rosuav]

Did you get the licence key? (If so, it's probably a duplicate of a key that someone else uses.) Without a key, you can't reinstall - but you can most certainly continue to USE the piece of rubbish.

(Of course, you don't have to. But that's different.)

[anthson]

My Windows XP is legit, but now every time I boot up it says it's not and asks me to "get genuine." I have the damn sticker on the back of my machine, but Microsoft doesn't really care. I'm told I can fix this with a series of phone calls, but who wants to spend time on the phone with Microsoft? I just keep using it as is, and other than the pop-up screen when I boot, I don't have any troubles.