have CD key, no CD

i have the winXP cd key, but don't have the CD.

i was told by the helpful people here that i can use my CD-key for any winXP home installation disk, but i'm not sure where i can download it online. i prefer to stay away from filesharing programs if at all possible.

thanks in advance.

If you're scared of filesharing programs, you won't find it.

check your PMs

well, the code is taped onto the side of the case with all the microsoft certifications... so i assume it is legal.

If it is a name brand computer, call them and ask for a copy of the restore disks. Most charge about $15 for this.

You can also use any XP installation disk that matches the version you are trying to install (Home, Professional, 64 bit Professional, Media Center). You can borrow or copy it from a friend, or see if a local computer store can make you a copy of one of theirs.

There is no way to legally download one from the internet. And I would be very cautious about doing that, because of virus and spyware.