Key for reformat

If I wish to reformat for a third of fourth time will XP ask for a new key?

 

>> If I wish to reformat for a third of fourth time will XP ask for a new key? lionrampant <<

For some tips Re: Formatting and WPA...
Go Here: Windows Product Activation (WPA) on Windows XP

When you get to that webpage; scroll down to: What about formatting a hard disk?

Good Luck!

 

Since my XP came with the PC OEM, I should be able to reformat unlimitedly since it is "BIOS locked".

 

My wpa file is only 3 K. I thought that the file would have grown larger over years of use.

 

If I put the wpa.dbl file on a floppy, reinstall XP and put the wpa file in the sys32 folder wiil that work? The pages I read didn't mention any other files.

 

The first link doesn't connect to an active page. The second link repeated what I had read before. I don't have a wpa.bak file. Any idea why not?

 

You can reactivate xp as many times as you want for your system. You'll end up having to use the phone to it though. Painless process.

I've never gotten the method of backing up the wpa file to work & have read somewhere it is a myth.

 

I used to have key probs alot with windows with my million formats, but i once tried using ..erm.. other keys found on the net which didnt work, then used mine again and it activated successfully. I have never had a prob since, i format, use my windows key, it activates. I hate this xp authentication system to be honest

 

I too hate the XP Authentification process though I see it as a necessary evil due to so many people dishonestly using pirated copies. My next box will be linux, i'm kissing M$ goodbye.

 

If it's an OEM version of XP there is no activation.

 

That solves my problem.

 

I have to activate my OEM home edition.

 

Shouldn't of had to, OEM versions come pre-activated. I just reloaded my son's computer without having to reactivate, but this is MS were talking about. Stranger things have happened.

 

You not talking about the corporation version are you? I know that doesn't need activation.

All the OEM's I've seen need to be activated in 30 days.

But like you said we are talking MS.

 

OEM still has to be activated. It is the same as a retail copy, with no free warranty support.

SLP OEM installations do not.


SLP= System Locked Preinstallation.


This is where activation is tied to the machine, via SLP code in the BIOS. Think Dell, HP, Compaq, Emachines, etc.

Hope that clears up any confusion.

 

Ahhhh it do.