Windows Activation

I have a pc with XP Pro installed on it... this is a pirated version of XP.. is there a way to obtain / pay for an activation or serial number and use it with out losing already installed software on the PC... i dont want to re-format the machine if possible... any help or advace will be appreciated ..
thanks

 

If you install on top of your existing system as an Upgrade, you should maintain all of your apps and settings.

If you are being requested to activate your installation, you can just enter the code from a legal copy and you're set.

 

For it to upgrade i wouldnt have it boot from the CD correct..
just install the disk to an already booted up PC ?

 

Insert CD, wait for autorun to fire, select upgrade...

 

Microsoft had me do a parallel install (i think) save original stuff to a folder ..

then i will copy it to a ext. drive... then do a fresh install...

almost 5 hours of telephone time... micosoft sucks...
but i hope they helped me...

it would also be nice if the customer support reps spoke clear english....

i feel like ive been to India for a month...

 

Interesting - that's usually the cop-out method. Unfortunately, that's the support MSFT has to provide today to compete...

 

I tried several times to get it to load.. but i couldnt even get to the desktop ..
so i did the parallel install.. so it works at least...