Windows XP Activate

[killbuzz]

I bought Windows XP Home Edition with the license, I have used it a couple of times, and went to install it on my other computer and it installed but when I went to activate it, it told me that this CD key as been exceeded more then it was suppose to. What does that mean? Am I out 100 bucks, or do I call Microsoft and get them to open my CD key back up? Can someone help me please?
Thanks

 

[wolluf]

You need a separate licence for each machine you install XP on - so if you've previously installed & activated your copy of XP on another machine, that's why you're getting this message. If you've removed it from previous machine, you'll need to call M$ to explain the situation so they can allow activation on new machine.

 

[killbuzz]

So how much is another licence? Also, this machine im using now that i activated WINDOWS XP on will activate everytime i install it on this machine correct?

Thanks

 

[Guest_imported]

I have windows xp, and i have installed it about 5 or 10 ten times on the same computer. But, if you change your motherboard or other hardware you might be forced to get a new license. As long as you keep your current hardware configuration as it is you won't have a problem installing XP.

 

[lewisp]

How does the CD know you've installed it on another PC?

 

[wolluf]

Killbuzz.

So how much is another licence?
I believe there is a small discount (10% ish) for second and subsequent licences, compared to first licence.

Also, this machine im using now that i activated WINDOWS XP on will activate everytime i install it on this machine correct?
Well, you do the activating, but yes, every time you reinstall XP it will need to be activated.

Lewisp

The CD doesn't know - but when you try to activate - the key & hardware config are checked on M$'s database - which won't allow activation if key is already activated with a different config.

 

[Guest_imported]

I don't know the exact price of a new key, but I could imagine it would be M$-high. I would suggest not using XP and choose another OS instead. Like Win2K.

 

[mithrilhall]

thread779-330507

There are keygens floating around on the internet.

***************************************************************
I'm in no way condoning the illegal use of a MS product. I just thought I would point that out to you.
*************************************************************** ====================================
I love people. They taste just like
chicken!

 

[lewisp]

Sorry for my ignorance, wolluf, but does that mean that XP will force you to be on-line while installing? Otherwise how will it check the M$ database?

 

[cschaffer]

you will need to activate it within (is it 14 0r 30 days) it will the connecto to the "database" so see if it has a valid key....

 

[destructa]

contact microsoft and tell them you bought a new machine, and your installing a copy of xp you purchased for your previous machine, they should be able to help you out, i had to do it for a friend when i built a new machine for him. I couldn't do it over the net, but if you select to activate over the phone (a free phone number (in the uk at least)) you be put through to a representative who'll be able to help you. If it annoys Microsoft then it's worth doing, and doing well!!

 

[killbuzz]

Ok, thanks. i knew they connected to the database and checked for the key but i didnt know they do it also by hardware. This other computer i got can stay on 98s/e its just my old comp

thanks again..