Why can't I activate Windows XP?

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I had this problem yesterday on a PC at work. When I installed XP Pro using an SP2 disc, I got the fail activation screen, where I can't log into windows unless it's safe mode. Used the SP3 disc, tried installing again, and all was good :)

Am running into a similar issue, except, I found out safe mode with networking wont let you log in for the same reason. Will try just safe mode in a moment....

I read this article with great interest as , like you I'd never seen this before. In my case I initially used a a Windows retail disk., which I'd never had problems with. As my network card was fine but other devices were not I downloaded a oem version which installed no problem. I'm not sure if this throws a spanner in the works of your theory enntirely as Windows retail disks should'nt have a problem. Anyway I'm glad I wasn't the only one that had this problem.
Regards, Kieron

Hello,

I know that this is an old thread but it appears to still be active. in case someone is still having problems with activation here is what you should do:

1. boot into VGA mode (restart the computer and keep pressing F8 key; when the "Advanced boot menu" shows up you should select "Enable VGA Mode" (or Enable Low-Resolution Video). In the VGA Mode you should try to activate Windows XP again.

2. In case that you cannot activate Windows XP in VGA Mode you should download Service Pack 3 (on another computer) for Windows XP from the link below:

Windows XP Service Pack 3 Network Installation Package for IT Professionals and Developers
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=5b33b5a8-5e76-401f-be08-1e1555d4f3d4&displaylang=en

After the download you should boot into Safe Mode and install the SP3. When the installation is complete just reboot the computer and activate Windows XP via Internet or Telephone - whatever works for you. You will definetly get the installation ID.

In case someone is wondering why this happens:
Installation ID is generated from your Windows XP version, product key and some random piece of your computer's hardware (this also means that chaning the hardware will sometimes deactivate Windows XP). Windows XP before SP3 had only a few integrated drivers so this means that the "vital" piece of hardware is not recognized, therefore Installation ID cannot be generated.

Hope this help (and I'm sorry if someone else already posted this; I haven't really gone through all posts before posting this)

Cheers, Mjav

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