Reinstalling XP, what about reactivation?

JCROCCO

Senior member
Mar 14, 2003
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I had a HD just crash on me, checked it with mf'r software to verify disk was bad, in fact, disk needed to be replaced.

No big deal, was on a network with a server, so no info was lost, BUT

When I go to add the new drive, and reinstall WinXP PRO again, can I then again activate it? What problems may I encounter, if any?

Also, I have only the CD key for the disks, for each computer so I know which CD goes to which computer. I dont have the product key tho. Is that the one generated that I use then to call in and get the other 100 number code? OR DO I really need the Product key also

thanks.
 

EeyoreX

Platinum Member
Oct 27, 2002
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Reinstall. Use the 25 character CD-key. Reactivate. Enjoy Windows XP.

You will have no problem reactivating unless you try to reactivate more than 3 times in 90 days. In which case, you will need to call Microsoft's activation line, spend about 5 minutes tops reactivating over the phone, and then going about your business.

Bottom line. You should have no trouble at all.

\Dan
 

JCROCCO

Senior member
Mar 14, 2003
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The product key is 25 characters (which I dont have), the CD key is 14 (which I do have).

Isnt the product key given to you after you install it with the CD key?

Can you install it with just the CD key?
 

n0cmonkey

Elite Member
Jun 10, 2001
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Originally posted by: JCROCCO
The product key is 25 characters (which I dont have), the CD key is 14 (which I do have).

Isnt the product key given to you after you install it with the CD key?

Can you install it with just the CD key?

If I understand this correctly (and I may not since I have never had to deal with this crap), you reinstall. You have the CD key. That is good. You will need it during the install, as usual. Then, you connect to the net, and reactivate. Simple so far. If there are problems with the simple net activation, you will have to call some Microsoft support number (that the error messages will provide), and activate over the phone. You will recieve a number to plug in a box. I am guessing that is the product key.
 

JCROCCO

Senior member
Mar 14, 2003
596
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Well, when I did it the first time, i had the CD key. After install, there was a number given to me by the computer that I had to give to MS in order to get another number. IS the Product key given after you install and have the CD key? Then you give the product key to MS to get the unlock key of numbers and numbers? Dont know if this is correct or not, but I guess well just see.