registration

[Ben]

Every time that I start up my computer, I am given a
message that I have X amount of days to register with
microsoft. I constantly click that I would like to
register, but I am never sent anywhere or given any
prompt. The countdown is now down to three days left,
and I don't really know what will happen when it hits
zero. Any advice?

 

[R. C. White]

Hi, Ben.

No. Read the message again. It doesn't say "Register", does it? It should
say "Activate".

Register is voluntary. All this does is give Microsoft your name and
address.

Activate is NOT voluntary. You can't continue to use WinXP unless you
activate your copy, as it says on the screen. If that machine is connected
to the Internet, just click the button and let it activate automatically.
You should not have to activate WinXP on that computer again, unless the
computer is significantly changed, such as with a new motherboard. If you
miss the "window" for automatic activation via the Internet, then you will
need to make a painless 5-minute phone call (the toll-free number will be
supplied) to activate it that way.

For details of the whys and wherefores of activation, including the "Top 10
Myths About Product Activation", see this page:
Microsoft Product Activation
http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/basics/activation/

RC

 

[JeffO]

Try this:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=326851

 

[Alex Nichol]

Every time that I start up my computer, I am given a
message that I have X amount of days to register with
microsoft. I constantly click that I would like to
register, but I am never sent anywhere or given any
prompt.

Get on the net, then go to
Start - All Programs - Accessories - System Tools - Activate Windows
and take the 'activate on the internet now' option, and OK. There is no
need to register your name and address - just the activate, which should
take no more than 30 seconds