Solved: How to update the XP license code?

[needsleep]

A friend installed his copy of XP on my machine many months ago. I already had my own license for XP at that point, but as a matter of convenience at the time, we installed his copy. Now as you know, MS won't supply automatic updates anymore, because they think I have a stolen copy of XP. Technically correct, but realistically, not quite that bad. How do I tell the operating system my correct license code? Will I need to reinstall the OS, or can it be done with less fuss?

Thanks.

 

[slarti]

It isn't legal unless you use the copy that you have and only on one device. If there was an easy way to do what you're asking, then no one would buy Windows, they'd just get a copy and replace the code.

 

[kiwiguy]

It's quite legal to change the key if you own a valid copy for that PC.

Microsoft actually tell you how to do it here:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;328874

 

[Swiper]

just an fyi:

that link shows you how to change the serial key/volume license if the OS is still running Service Pack 1.

It is not possible if Service Pack 2 except:
The only way I do believe that you can change/update your volume license/cd key is to " repair " your Windows

boot off of cdrom, choose repair option etc...

( i have not tried this option, but it supposedly works )
I personally can not confirm/deny it though

 

[Eriksrocks]

Yes, but... I bet it would work on SP2 too.

 

[Swiper]

It actually doesn't
as soon as you reboot the computer, it will revert back to the originally installed cd key/product key

(at least that's what a lot of people tell me)
)

 

[Bob Cerelli]

A little utility you might try is Keyfinder. Not only does it show you the key on the current computer but lets you change it.

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

 

[Eriksrocks]

A little utility you might try is Keyfinder. Not only does it show you the key on the current computer but lets you change it.

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

I highly doubt the changing part. Even if it does do that then I'm sure it's not legal and I would be very careful what you do with that thing.