how to switch keys in XP ? I have a legit key that will not work

[lotust]

Hi,


I just reformated my new dell 9150 with a bootleg copy I use to testing purposes. yeah anyway. I have a sealed legit XP pro with none of the updates or service packs. My bootleg copy is pretty up to date. but When I use a a ketchanger it will not let me use my legit key


I hate to reformat again with the legit version. Is there a way to add my legit key?

 

[spyordie007]

Sounds like your legit key is for a differant version than you have installed on your computer. I.E. you've installed a volume license version on your computer and the one you purchased is OEM or Retail.

If that's the case you should be reinstalling.

Might want to try changing your key the legitimate way:
start>run>"%systemroot%\system32\oobe\msoobe /a"

The windows activation dialog will allow you to change the product key without a 3rd party app. Of course it still requires that you have a legitimate key for the version you are running...

 

[MaxxuM]

http://www.majorgeeks.com/download2745.html

SP1 - http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q328874

http://xphelpandsupport.mvps.org/how_do_i_change_the_windows_xp_p.htm

There are more on Google.... What I believe you are having a problem with is 're' registering with the real key in which case look at the last link.

 

[lotust]

thanks guys :thumbsup:

 

[RebateMonger]

I've gone from an OEM version of XP Pro to a Volume License version of XP Pro by doing a "Repair Installatiion" from the XP Pro Boot CD. That's the only way to get a new key to work if the key is from a different version of XP (i.e. OEM, Retail, Volume).

You can do the Repair Installation without losing data, settings, or installed applications IF all goes well.

 

[lotust]

Originally posted by: RebateMonger
I've gone from an OEM version of XP Pro to a Volume License version of XP Pro by doing a "Repair Installatiion" from the XP Pro Boot CD. That's the only way to get a new key to work if the key is from a different version of XP (i.e. OEM, Retail, Volume).

You can do the Repair Installation without losing data, settings, or installed applications IF all goes well.

thanks I might have to do this.


I got this message from ms "Why did my machine fail validation?" lol stupid windows

 

[spyordie007]

I got this message from ms "Why did my machine fail validation?" lol stupid windows

No offence but I'd say stupid you. What do you expect using an illegitimate copy?

 

[lotust]

Originally posted by: spyordie007

I got this message from ms "Why did my machine fail validation?" lol stupid windows

No offence but I'd say stupid you. What do you expect using an illegitimate copy?

I say you suck.. I was trying to avoid the patching process and save time. But it looks like it backfired. Not a huge deal but still a pain in the ars.


thanks for the help