Activate Windows XP on more than one PC?

  • by Dennis Faas on 20040114 @ 12:36AM EST | google it | send to friends
  • Filed under Software | Windows Tips | (related terms: computer, xp activation, copy, registration, dna fingerprint)

Infopackets Gazette Reader Marie 'ChameleonsGirl' asks:

" I have a new computer that came with Windows XP. I would like to know if it is possible to register the same copy of Windows XP on my other computer, or do I have to go buy another XP disc? "

My response:

Microsoft has designed Windows XP so that it works only on 1 computer. This is a form of copy protection and is aimed at stopping software piracy. As far as I understand, the Windows XP activation works something like this:

  1. You buy Windows XP on CD (or it comes with your computer) and includes a registration number.
     
  2. The Windows XP activation program looks at each hardware component inside your computer, gathers their serial numbers, and produces a unique "DNA fingerprint" of your computer's identity.
     
  3. The XP CD registration number + computer hardware DNA fingerprint = a unique Windows XP activation code.
     
  4. Since an activation number includes a unique DNA fingerprint of a specific computer, it will not work on any other computer.

So, to answer your question: Yes, you would have to buy another copy of Windows XP in order to activate it on your second computer.