Can I replace the XP Pro product key?

iwb

I had to load XP Pro on my machine in an emergency rebuild and 'borrowed' a product key. I now have the product key I should've used and want to substitute it. Please tell me I don't have to reload the OS to do this.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Regards, iwb.

Capt'n Midnight

The SYSPREP utility on the CD or the site (can't remember) will "reseal" XP, so you have to reenter the S/N again.

sceptre

Have a look at these two kb articles:

HOW TO: Change the Volume Licensing Product Key on a Windows XP SP1-Based Computer

HOW TO: Change the Product Key at the Time of Activation

iwb

Thanks for the help. I followed the instructions on the volume licensing thing but it didn't work. It won't take the new product key. I guess the key I 'borrowed' is a volume licensing key. The XP Pro that I bought is a retail one. Will this procedure work in that case?

zAbbo

ok

start > run > "oobe/msoobe /a"

activate by phone, change key yada yada yada

iwb

I did all that. It won't accept the new key. What I want to know is if it is because the key I want to use is retail and the software I used is based on volume licensing.

radiospan

Do a search on Google for "windows xp product key changer".

There's a good guide here:
http://ryan.ript.net/xppid/

iwb

Thanks for all your help guys. I found out that having used a disk for volume licensing, I can't now replace the product key with one from the retail version. I guess I have to reload XP with the disk.
Thanks again, iwb

ColmOT [MSFT]

IWB, you can make your reinstall somewhat easier on you if you use the migration wizard and back up your current configuration.

When you reinstall the new Win XP, you can reapply your settings that you backed up....