De-activating Windows XP

[Brian Wescombe]

Here's the story. I did a Windows XP Home re-install for a friend using my
generic OEM CD and product key (as I've upgraded to Professional the key was
no longer being used). Now I need my key back! How do I de-activate his
installation so that I can re-enter the key from his COA ? Obviously I'd
need to call MS and tell them the HD failed or something. I don't want to
re-install or do a repair install if I can help it.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Shenan Stanley]

Here's the story. I did a Windows XP Home re-install for a friend
using my generic OEM CD and product key (as I've upgraded to
Professional the key was no longer being used). Now I need my key
back! How do I de-activate his installation so that I can re-enter
the key from his COA ? Obviously I'd need to call MS and tell them
the HD failed or something. I don't want to re-install or do a
repair install if I can help it.

Following the strict agreement (that you agreed to by installing/using the
OS) of the OEM agreement - the OEM license was never transferrable in the
first place. It was stuck on the first machine it was ever installed upon
and if that machine melted to slag - so did your right to use that
particular license.

Pretty much - the only guaranteed way to change his CD Key/activation is to
performa repair installation with his CD.

 

[Brian Wescombe]

Following the strict agreement (that you agreed to by installing/using the
OS) of the OEM agreement - the OEM license was never transferrable in the
first place. It was stuck on the first machine it was ever installed upon
and if that machine melted to slag - so did your right to use that
particular license.

Agreed, but it still re-activated over the internet several years after
removing it from my first PC. I now plan to move it to another machine where
i'm sure it will re-activate again.

Pretty much - the only guaranteed way to change his CD Key/activation is
to performa repair installation with his CD.

OK, thanks - I thought there was a way to get the OOBE box to come up again
so I can change the key?

 

[Ron Martell]

Agreed, but it still re-activated over the internet several years after
removing it from my first PC. I now plan to move it to another machine where
i'm sure it will re-activate again.


OK, thanks - I thought there was a way to get the OOBE box to come up again
so I can change the key?

If his Windows product key is also for a generic OEM version then you
can change the product key using Magic Jelly Bean key finder:
http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP (1997 - 2006)
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca

"Anyone who thinks that they are too small to make a difference
has never been in bed with a mosquito."