C&C Generals CD Key question Options

[Guest_Vintorez_*]

Hi, i lost my original copy of C&C Generals and I'm thinking about buying a used copy off of Amazon - but my question is, if I buy a used copy and the CD Key has already been used, does this prevent the online multiplayer from functioning? i had originally downloaded a copy off the internet (seeing as i had bought the original, but no longer had a CD for it), however the multiplayer did not function, which I heard was an intentional feature designed to prevent piracy.

Also one other question - is the "C&C Generals: Deluxe" any different function-wise than the original Generals/Zero Hour copies sold seperately? As in, would the Rise of the Reds mod need different installation instructions with the C&C Generals: Deluxe version? Thanks.