The Like/Hate Thread

[Orion]

That's just silly, serial numbers are an industry standard. Dell, HP, Microsoft, Apple, etc all use those and some won't even help you unless you provide one. If you're working IT you should always have a serial number ready.

Yes, I'm well aware serial numbers are important. I've just never needed one for a Microsoft installation.

Not all computers have the windows sticker on them, usually you will only find those on machines purchased from a distributor like Dell, HP, or such. The technician likely assumed that you didn't have the sticker if you didn't have the CD, that is wrong since you shouldn't assume in Tech Support.

All computers are supposed to have a Windows XP sticker on their side, it's part of the EULA, including any prebuilt systems from Dell and the like. Any computer with Windows on it is technically illegal without that sticker. She should've known that and told me to check it accordingly; if I couldn't, that should've tipped her off that it might be a dodgy copy. And yes, she shouldn't have assumed, IT is all about asking as many questions as you can.

Why don't you complain about Comcast, I can get behind that- or epson.

Haven't used Comcast, but Epson's pretty ordinary. But come on, as if there's nothing to complain about with Microsoft.