It's all a bit of a worry if you do your banking etc on the PC.
Good instincts kind sir.
You may wish to backup your pictures, files, favourites and other data then start anew just to be sure.
lost legit system disc for laptop and was going to crack another legit OS disc.
You can repartition (backup first please) then install using a version compatible (SP2, SP1 XP Home disk) from any OEM and re-enter your key (sticker on the lappie bottom). If any squawks, call the Microsoft toll free # and get a legitimate override using the key on the sticker.
Network cards, modems, video chips and sound devices will likely need drivers from the laptop's manufacturer. A second PC with internet access and CD burner would be useful here.
Be sure to run Windows Update, restart the computer if asked, then re-run WU until the machine is current. Please install AVG AV as well and update before accessing any back ups. Use MS Office? There are security updates at office.microsoft.com.
I tend to babble on. Apologies.
