Have I been had?

[Sanity]

I just bought a new copy of windows xp home on Ebay for a new computer I built. I bid on the full version since I don't wan OEM. This is the description in the listing:

"THIS IS A BRAND NEW NEVER REGISTERED Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition. GENUINE COPY RECEIVED DIRECTLY FROM MICROSOFT (FULL VERSION, NOT AN UPGRADE).

THIS IS THE SAME FULL VERSION THAT RETAILS FOR $200.00 U.S. IT CONTAINS THE PRODUCT KEY CODE STRAIGHT FROM MICROSOFT. THIS IS NOT AN ACADEMIC, OEM, TRIAL, OR OTHERWISE.

Extra security with the ability to encrypt files and folders.
Integration with Windows servers and management solutions.
Administer digital pictures, music, video, DVDs, and more.
Built-in voice, video, and instant messaging support.
The must needed operating system on the market"


What I got in the mail is a Bronze color CD marked "microsoft windows xp professional with service pack2 (product key required)" dated November 2004 and with Microsoft Licensing printed on it. Did I get screwed or did I get lucky with getting a Professional CD. Will I be able to install and update this disk? I do not want to open the 5"x5" plastic bag it is sealed in untill i know it will work for me. Thanks.

 

[csmgeek]

I just purchased a similar version from a college student who just graduated. It does not say "student version" on it but I believe it is. The CD is gold and it comes in sealed plastic bag and the cd is in a flimsy holder.

I have not installed it yet but I will let you know when I do. The bottom line is that I don't think you got ripped off unless someone has already used the registration code.

 

[exit2dos]

The student versions of xp are always professional as some components are required by Visual Studio.

The universities sell these to students usually for around $10 with a limit of either one or two. The student does not "own" the license until s\he graduates. If s\he drops out of school, then the student is supposed to delete it from their computer. Some students I know get both xp pro and xp-64 CDs with seperate keys from the university.

In short, your CD key is probably legit but probably not legal.

Note: This is just FYI, not an attempt to start a judgement or flame war. 😛