Windows XP pre-installed - but I get an activation request

Question

I get a Balloon message that I have X number of days to ACTIVATE
WINDOWS. I ordered this PC from Dell (2004) with all pre-installed Windows XP Pro. When I
follow instructions and click on the balloon "to activate Windows" - A
blue box comes up and tells me Windows has been activated. --

This balloon warning has occured approximately every 7 days. It tells me I now have 16
days. ---

Per reading the Windows Help instructions on activating Windows -- I
confirmed that the Windows Activation Icon is "not Present" in the system
tray. I understand that this confirms I'm activated -- But what happens
when the Balloon reaches ZERO days??

Any Ideas?

bugs2929 · Answer

Thanks - But I've been there. Since Windows was pre-installed and actvated over two years ago...I should not be getting a request to activate now.

Plus there is NO activation ICON in the System tray and No Activation Module in the Programs > Accessories> System Tools menu. If it wasn't active they would be there.

My concern is that once these 16 days elapse ---I will be out of luck.

mombodog · Answer

When it reaches zero you will be locked out of your PC, you will have to reinstall again. If this is a new purchase you should contact Dell customer support and get it resolved, if they give you the run around tell them you want to return or exchange the computer. Message Edited by mombodog on 08-03-200610:46 PM

fudgieguys · Answer

You might want to read this article. http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/FAQ.aspx?displaylang=en Maybe it will help.

bugs2929 · Answer

And that is why I'm here seeking help.

mombodog · Answer

I had a very similar problem on a system I had earlier this year, I did not get any ballons but in event viewer I got the same warning, every time I rebooted it logged a warning. It never did shut down my PC, it had this error until I reinstalled it months later.. Do not know what to say in your case, Sorry

Denny Denham · Answer

bugs2929, See if the Manual Steps section here is any help. You may have to resort to using the phone to activate.

bugs2929 · Answer

Thanks to all. I learned a lot in the past 24 hours. I will use everyone's input wisely.   Since I'm not comfortable messing with the registry ... I'm going to use the Guided Help tool.  But as always, I'm going to err on the side of caution and sit down with someone( I know well) who works on the Wachovia Securities PC Help Group. Since they are a Dell client and utilize XP, I'm sure I can review with them what I intend to accomplish.   Not wanting to impose and wanting to grow in knowledge myself ... I felt it important to join several online forums and learn the use of tools myself.                  Thanks so much                                            Mike

dunedin · Answer

Hello bugs2929 :smileyhappy:

The Product Activation data is kept in c:\windows\system32\wpa.dbl

Boot into safe mode and delete the wpa.dbl and wpa.bak files, and reboot. You'll have to re-activate then, but it should "stick."

So make sure you have your product key to re-activate before you do this

maddy78 · Answer

Hi Bugs2929,   If nothing works, run a repair re-installation of windows xp, using the windows xp re-installation disc. Make sure you boot through the windows xp cd to run repair.   Dell Systems use a concept called SLA (System locked architecture). Hence these systems should not force you to enter product key or registration information or activation.   Note: Select the repair option that comes after the licensing agreement (F8 -> 'I agree' screen).   Happy troubleshooting.   Cheers, Maddy.

Windows General

Windows XP pre-installed - but I get an activation request

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