Change windows xp key tool

But if you're unsure, a quick way to tell is to install Service Pack 1. Please contact your system administrator or retailer immediately to obtain a valid Product Key…" You are dealing with a pirated copy of Windows. For more information about obtaining a valid product key, see Microsoft Knowledge Base article The machine's product ID will be located under the Registered To section. None of the procedures described below will work without a legitimate product key.

The script method is outlined in article and is designed to work on Corporate Edition installations that use a VLK and do not require activation. It may work on a Home or Professional installation, but I have not tested this scenario. The script method is the practical solution for changing the product keys on a large number of machines.

Regardless of the method you choose, make sure to backup important data before changing a product ID, since an unexpected problem could render the machine unbootable and necessitate a complete reinstallation of Windows.

The following instructions involve editing your system registry. Using the Windows Registry Editor incorrectly can cause serious problems that require the reinstallation of your operating system and possible loss of data. TechRepublic does not support problems that arise from editing your registry. Use the Registry Editor and the following directions at your own risk.

Change at least one character of this value to either a number from 0 to 9 or to a letter from A to F, then click OK and close the Registry Editor. This renders the current product key invalid and deactivates Windows. Tips and Warnings. Related Articles. Author Info Last Updated: June 3, Method 1. Type 'Regedit' in the white text field, and click OK.

This should open the Registry Editor. Navigate to the following registry key. Select 'Yes, I want to telephone a customer service representative to activate Windows', then click next.

Type the new product key into the small white text fields and then click update. Check that you get a message similar to 'You have successfully activated your copy of Windows.

Method 2. Click Next. This tool will scan your system for any inconsistency or errors. Wait for the scan to finish. Type in the new product key. You might be required to activate your system again. Restart your computer. This will allow the changes to take place.

Jarod Smith. If the product key isn't working, there is something wrong with the OS. It also might be due to the fact that Windows XP has stopped being supported. You can try updating Windows. Yes No. Not Helpful 0 Helpful 6. Click Next, and you will finally reach the screen Figure F where you will enter your new Product Key. Figure F Enter the new Product Key. Editor's Picks. The best programming languages to learn in Check for Log4j vulnerabilities with this simple-to-use script.

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