*Rant*
so i am having some computer problems with my work computer. i am running Windows XP and when doing a scan it found a strange file which i deleted as usual. but then my windows explorer decided it wouldn't run. so the computer is now clean and functional except i have no desktop or windows explorer (not internet explorer ).

so i went onto a computer help forum that has helped me in the past with this computer. i posted my problem and then a Hijack This log (apparently this log tells them everything they need to know about whats goin on in your computer, though i don't understand it ).

the person who decided to help me first suggested some simple things i had already tried and then after getting me to do the Hijack This log asked what registry i was using. i explained that i got the computer for free and that it is old and came with no windows CDs or key numbers, so when i had a problem before (where i had to format the computer) i had to use a corporate version of windows that i found on the internet. i would have gladly used a real copy, but i don't have an extra $130 to spend on a real copy for a computer that is 6 years old and worth nothing.

so the moderator posts this:
"Well unfortunately this means your operating system is not genuine and we do not support or condone the use of pirated software.

I have no choice but to close this thread as we don't assist in these situations."

i realise that they can't condone pirating, but it really ticked me off. as soon as the guy saw my Hijack This log he knew what type of windows i had he was just waiting for me to post it so he could close the thread. i have posted Hijack This log from this computer before and never had a problem.

am i wrong to be mad? should i have lied?

PS i know pirating is a touchy subject and in no way want to start a thread about it. i don't condone it but felt i had no choice under the circumstances. my other computers all have genuine copies of windows and i actually went out to buy a copy of XP for this one and realized no one carries it anymore, and i won't go to Vista.