For many computers a reinstall of Windows XP (even on the same PC) requires a re-activation with Microsoft. Some versions of XP require you to actually call Microsoft after a certain number of activations have already been performed to get it activated again. This guide shows you how to bypass all of this by backing up your activation database files.
Backup Your Activation Files
You need to make a copy of and save on CD two files in your \%systemroot%\system32 folder. The files are wpa.dbl and wpa.bak.
\%systemroot%\ is either WINDOWS or WINNT in your C:\ drive.
You might have to search your computer for the files using the search feature of Windows XP.
Restore Your Activation Files
If you need to restore your activation files after a fresh install boot your computer in Safe Mode by pressing F8 on your keyboard repeatedly while the computer is booting up. A screen will show up that ask you how you want to boot Windows. Select Safe Mode.
Once your computer is booted in safe mode, rename the current wpa.dbl to wpa.nonactivated and wpa.bak to wpabak.nonactivated in the \%systemroot%\system32 directory.
Please Note: In order to change a file’s file extension (.dbl) you might need to open My Documents, click Tools, select Folder Options, click the View Tab, uncheck Hide Extensions For Known File Types.
Copy you backed up activation files in the \%systemroot%\system32 folder.
Restart your computer in its regular mode.
Please note: This might not work depending on the type of licensing you have on your copy of Windows XP. This will most likely work on copies of Windows XP that were purchased in a store. It might not work on copies installed by a computer manufacturer like Dell or HP (OEM).
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