[RESOLVED] Restore and then sell computer

[Senator]

Trust this is the correct section for this query.

I want to sell my old computer to a work colleague for a nominal fee. It’s fairly pedestrian by today’s standards but he only wants it to surf, e-mail etc.

It’s got XP Home (OEM) pre installed. If I use the restore disc to take the comp back to factory setting (before I sell it), will he be able to start using it as if he was the original owner?
I’m more concerned about Windows XP being activated again using different details to when I activated it when I first bought the machine.

He’s even less computer savvy than me – and I know hardly anything, so I don’t want him to run into any difficulties right at the outset.

Hope you experts can see what I’m trying to get at.

Any help or pointers appreciated.

[SuperSparks]

Yes, he will be able to use it just fine - the only details that Product Activation is concerned about is the hardware of the computer, it doesn't involve any of your personal information.

Be aware that anyone who is reasonably computer savvy can recover any of your personal details even after using those restore CDs. If you want to be certain that nobody can access any important personal data, use a secure overwriting app on the drive first, and then use the Restore CD. This is a very good freeware one:

Eraser

[Senator]

Thanks for taking the time to reply Supersparks.

That's what I wanted to hear. I will use the Eraser app as you suggested (just in case) and then I will be happy to pass the computer on, knowing that it can be started as new - as it were.

I just wasn't sure whether Windows would complain about being restarted with different details, but if it's just matching up with hardware then everything should be peachy.

Thanks once again.

[SuperSparks]

You're very welcome