Beta SP1 and Windows activation key

[dragonfly522]

Hi,

I understand that some people may not be able to answer the Vista questions because they don't use Vista, but as much as can be answered would be greatly appreciated. My computer is a Dell and a Dell agent told me that since I have downloaded the beta version of SP1 I must reinstall Windows. My current SP1 version is showing on the MyComputer properties as .668.

1) I seem to remember reading about the beta download on the download site that the official SP1 version will automatically download upon it becoming available to do so. Back then, the Beta version was all that was out. Does anyone know how I can avoid having to reinstall Windows by installing SP1 over its Beta version?

2) If it is imperative that I reinstall Windows, and just for future reference, my understanding is that Vista doesn't allow a reinstallation of Vista over the current version on the same partition without formatting it first, and that Windows XP does allow that to happen. Is this true?

3) If an SP1 install over its Beta version isn't possible, is it possible to uninstall the Beta version so that any current service packs may be downloaded?

4) My Windows comes up with a message which reads that a reboot will happen in 0 hours at some point during my Windows session. I am only able to use a Windows session for about 1 1/2-2 hours before it reboots. Does anybody know why this is? Does Microsoft require that everyone get another activation key every so often, even if a Windows program was purchased and is only being used by one computer? My Dell came with Vista already installed. It's almost like my computer thinks that I am using Windows without entering the key. Could this have happened?

I would reeeaaallly appreciate someone answering some or all of my questions. I'm in the dark.

[ɹəuəllıʍ ʇɐb]

Welcome to the Windows Forum.

I'm sure that you can uninstall the SP1 beta from Add/Remove Programs. You may have to check the 'Show Updates' checkbox, at least that was the case in earlier versions of Windows.

Let us know if you were able to uninstall the service pack.

[y2khardtop]

I agree that it is likely that you can uninstall the SP1 beta, through control panel. I can't remember how it is in Vista, but in XP you have to check a little check-mark that says "show updates" in the uninstall programs section.

Don't stress out about reinstalling. The best thing you can do to keep you computer working well is to back everything up (your user directorys in most cases), and reinstall a fresh copy.

It does sound like your Windows activation has gone awry. I would expect it to ASK you for activation info (which should be printed on your PC via sticker). XP would just stop working after your activation period expired, but I understand they've done some things (like you mention) that allows limited use of bootleg copies (or copies it THINKS are bootleg)