Activate Windows XP
When installing Windows XP on to a computer, it will probably ask for you to activate your version of Windows.
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About Activation
Product activation reduces a form of software piracy that is known as "casual copying". Casual copying is the sharing and installation of software that is not in accordance with the software's end-use license agreement (EULA).
Does activation submit personal data?
Activation is anonymous, and no personal information is required to activate. The installation ID records an association of the product ID to your computer and a confirmation is sent back to Microsoft. You can then use the product key to install Windows on that computer an unlimited number of times. However, if you want to install Windows on a different computer with that product key, you may have to contact a Microsoft customer service representative.
How long do I have to activate?
Activation is required in 30 days from the first day that you start Windows XP. If you want to activate Windows on a day that is later than the day that you install it, a Windows Activation icon appears in the notification area. This icon periodically displays notifications to remind you about how much time remains before you must activate. After the 30 days has expired, you must activate Windows to continue using Windows.
More information
This information was taken from How to activate Windows XP, where more detailed information can be found.
How to Activate Windows
If Windows hasn't been activated yet, you'll probably see the icon (circled) in your system tray:
More often, you'll notice this icon because of a pop-up such as this:
It is recommended that if you are going to be activating Windows that you do so while connected to the Internet.
Once you click on the pop-up to begin activation, you are presented with the following screen.
As long as you are online, the default option of "Yes, let's activate Windows over the Internet now." will be the best option. Click Next and you will be presented with the screen below.
If you choose to do so, you can register your copy of Windows. This is completely optional, so you can select the second option of "No, I don't want to register now; let's just activate Windows". Click Next, and you'll be presented with the window below.
Windows is now registered. Click the OK button and you will be able to continue using your version of Windows.
| This article is part of the Windows XP group. |
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