product activation

  • Thread starter Thread starter matt
  • Start date Start date
M

matt

Hi...

I recently had to call in to Microsoft to activate my
Windows XP. Because I did this recently, I don't want to
call in again and have Microsoft think I'm a pirate (which
I am not -- I have a legitimate license sticker and
everything). The problem is that I want to replace my
motherboard and video card. Will I be able to do this
without reinstalling and reactivating Windows XP?

Thanks,
matt
 
Make sure you use your old NIC that you activated with, I think they use the
MAC address from it. Good luck
 
Hi...

I recently had to call in to Microsoft to activate my
Windows XP. Because I did this recently, I don't want to
call in again and have Microsoft think I'm a pirate (which
I am not -- I have a legitimate license sticker and
everything). The problem is that I want to replace my
motherboard and video card. Will I be able to do this
without reinstalling and reactivating Windows XP?

Thanks,
matt
Click to expand...

Most of the time a repair install is necessary for a new motherboard. If
the call for activation prompt comes up, just call. There's no reason you
should feel guilty about upgrading your own system.
 
Greetings --

Normally, unless the new motherboard is virtually identical to the
old one (same chipset, same IDE controllers, same BIOS version, etc.),
you'll need to perform a repair (a.k.a. in-place upgrade)
installation, at the very least:

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/directory/article.asp?ID=KB;EN-US;Q315341

As always when undertaking such a significant change, back up any
important data before starting.

This may also require re-activation. If it's been more than 120
days since you last activated that specific Product Key, you'll most
likely be able to activate via the internet without problem. If it's
been less, you might have to make a 5 minute phone call.


Bruce Chambers

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