change activation key

[Jeff]

I had problems with my computer that caused me to need a
windows xp disc to load windows. I had upgraded from
windows ME with an XP upgrade disc so didn't have the
full system disc. I borrowed a friends XP disc but
mistakenly used his product activation key when I should
have used my old own. He is now having problems
activating. Is there a way for me to activate using my
old code so that he won't have any problems.

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

HOW TO: Change the Product Key at the Time of Activation
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;810892&Product=winxp

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User

Be Smart! Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


| I had problems with my computer that caused me to need a
| windows xp disc to load windows. I had upgraded from
| windows ME with an XP upgrade disc so didn't have the
| full system disc. I borrowed a friends XP disc but
| mistakenly used his product activation key when I should
| have used my old own. He is now having problems
| activating. Is there a way for me to activate using my
| old code so that he won't have any problems.

 

[Jeff]

The problem is that I have ALREADY used my friends
activation key. I need to undue that and use my own. Now
he is trying to install on his own computer and it won't
let him activate.

 

[Mike Brannigan [MSFT]]

The problem is that I have ALREADY used my friends
activation key. I need to undue that and use my own. Now
he is trying to install on his own computer and it won't
let him activate.

Your friend will have to activate via the telephone and explain to the
service rep what has happened.
He will be given a new Product Activation Key.
You should replace his key with your own following the advice already given
by Carey

--
Regards,

Mike
--
Mike Brannigan [Microsoft]

This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, and confers no
rights

Please note I cannot respond to e-mailed questions, please use these
newsgroups

 

[Jeff]

I cannot change the product key this way. Any other
options?

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

Using "your" Windows CD and "your" Product Key,
perform a "repair install".

How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

[Courtesy of MS-MVP Michael Stevens]

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User

Be Smart! Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/

 

[Jeff]

Thanks for your help. The site your pointed me to was
helpful. I still can't change the key. I think the reason
is that I had upgraded to XP from windows ME that was
preinstalled on my DELL. Does this mean that I have an
OEM? and can't change the key?