Changing Windows XP CD key

[KillerCharlie]

Here's the story:

University offers free windows XP to students. I downloaded XP Pro from the MS website (this was over a year ago). I then had to email someone for the key. Being impatient, I didn't wait for the response to get the key and used a key I found online. Fast forward to now - windows is whining about not being a genuine copy. I dug up the email and found the key.

Is there a way I can switch the CD key I'm using without reinstalling? I finally have my computer well-organized and running incredibly smoothly and it'd be a pain to reinstall. I guess I'll reformat/reinstall if I have to though.

 

[novice2006]

Try Winkey Finder.

http://www.majorgeeks.com/download4501.html

 

[KillerCharlie]

Thanks, I'll give it a try.

 

[KillerCharlie]

When I put in the key using that program it says it's invalid, although I haven't actually tried saving it and restarting. What would happen if the new key I enters isn't recognized as valid by windows but it still changes the registry and I restart?

I'm guessing one of two things is going on:
1) My version of windows isn't the same version of XP Pro that I used the key for.
2) The key changer simply doesn't know that the key I entered is valid.

 

[RebateMonger]

From your description, it SOUNDS like you want to change the Key for a Volume Licensed version of XP Pro from a "leaked" key to a legitmate one.

If this is the case, you can use this Microsoft Knowledge Base article.

If you are trying to change from a Volume Licensed version to an OEM or Retail version, you'll have to do a "Repair Install" of XP. As always, be sure you have backups of any important files before attempting system rebuilds.