Change the product key by deactivating Windows XP

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This tip explains how to change the Product Key by deactivating Windows XP SP1 or SP2.

To deactivate Windows XP, simply browse to the windowssystem32 folder and delete or rename the file WPA.DBL. This will allow you to reactivate XP with another Product Key by activating using the telephone/change product key. It is easier than editing the registry to deactivate.

This was first published in September 2005

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