How To Activate Windows XP Now That The Support Has Ended? Despite the fact that Windows XP once dominated the computer landscape, its official support life ended in 2014.
However, there are still individuals and organizations that still use this venerable OS for a variety of reasons, including compatibility with older hardware and software.
Many are left wondering how to activate Windows XP now that official support has ended, even though it is essential to consider upgrading to a more secure and supported system.
We’re going to explore Windows XP activation in this blog, discuss why it’s important, and give you practical advice on activating Windows XP even after its official support has been withdrawn.
You’ll find valuable insights on how to keep your Windows XP installation active whether you’re a business still reliant on it or an individual looking to revive an old computer.
The end of this article will prepare you for the post-support era of this classic OS.
Can Windows XP still be activated?
While Windows XP can still be used, there are a few things you should know. The software was discontinued years ago, so you can’t download it directly.
In other words, you won’t be able to get Windows XP support from Microsoft or any other official source.
Additionally, many applications have been updated and may not be compatible with Windows XP, so don’t be surprised if you can’t run your favorite browser or software.
In spite of the fact that you can use it, you are likely to encounter compatibility problems with modern software.
There are still some conditions under which Microsoft will activate Windows XP. Here are some of the main points:
- Replace your motherboard with the same make/model or the manufacturer’s equivalent if you have an OEM preinstalled license (such as HP, Acer, etc.). Otherwise, you will void your license.
- It may be necessary to activate Windows XP by phone if you have a retail license that you purchased and installed yourself.
- Windows XP can now be activated offline, without the need for an internet connection or telephone. However, Microsoft may not approve this tool, which may pose some security risks.
It is my hope that this information will be helpful to you.
Can Windows XP still be installed?
Even after Windows XP’s end of life, it’s still possible to install Windows XP. However, it’s difficult to download Windows XP because Microsoft no longer hosts the ISO, so you have to rely on third-party sources.
It is not recommended to use third-party sources since they can be unsafe and modify the installation, so it is best to use the original CD or ISO file.
How to activate Windows XP now that support has ended?
Microsoft no longer offers technical support for Windows XP, but you can still activate and install it on a system.
The only difference is that you won’t receive updates or receive any technical support from Microsoft.
Windows XP Activation over the Internet
With this method, Windows XP can be activated over the Internet. This method is easy to follow, and anyone without much technical experience can do it.
You can do this by following the steps below:
- Start by connecting your computer to the internet.
- By pressing the Windows key on Windows XP, you will be able to access the Start Menu.
- Select Accessories from All Programs.
- Click Activate Windows in the System Tools section.
- If you do not have a product key, you will be prompted to enter it.
- Click Yes, let’s activate Windows over the Internet once you’ve completed the steps above.
After that, you’ll be asked to register with Microsoft. You can skip this step by clicking on No, I don’t want to register now.
- After you complete the process, you will receive a thank-you screen. You will need to wait for a few minutes for Windows XP to become functional.
Using Safe Mode
If you are unable to connect your PC to the internet, you can proceed with this method. There is a possibility that the drivers are outdated or missing when the internet is not accessible.
If your PC is in safe mode, you can use it to update the drivers and then activate Windows XP.
Here are the steps you need to follow:
- If your PC is already running, turn it off.
- Once your PC has been turned on, press the Power button to turn it on. Press the F8 key on your keyboard to access the Advanced Boot Options.
- Safe Mode can be selected in the Advanced Boot Options.
- In order to continue, you will need to install the necessary drivers.
- Using another PC will be necessary for this.
- You can access the Run dialog box by pressing Windows + R while in safe mode.
- The Device Manager can be accessed by typing dvmgmt.msc and pressing Enter.
- A ! or ? sign will appear next to any hardware requiring an update or installation of drivers.
- You will now need to connect the other computer to the internet.
- On the browser, locate the driver you need and download it.
- Activate Windows XP on your PC by copying the downloaded drivers to a USB drive.
- Click Update Driver after right-clicking the driver you wish to update in Device Manager.
- Click on the file you saved and select it from your saved location.
- After updating your drivers, reboot your computer normally.
- Following the installation of the driver and the ability to use the internet, you can proceed with the first method.
Windows XP Disable Activation
You can disable the Activation wizard on Windows if you don’t have a Windows XP key and wish to skip the activation process. Follow these steps:
- To open Registry Editor, press Windows + R on your keyboard. In the Run Dialog Box, search for regedit and click on OK.
- You can open the Registry Editor by going to the following address:
- WPAEvents are stored in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/SOFTWARE/Microsoft/Windows NT/CurrentVersion (or “Current Version”).
It is important to note that if CurrentVersion is unavailable, you will see Current Version; you must visit it.
- The OOBETimer can be edited by double-clicking on it here.
- In the Value Data, you will have to set it as follows:
- FF D5 71 D6 8B 6A 8D 6F D5 33 93 FD
- To save the changes, click OK after changing the Value Data.
- Right-click on the blank space inside the WPAEvents folder in the Registry Editor.
- You can access this menu by clicking Permissions and then SYSTEM.
- Next to the Full Control Entry, you will find a Deny checkbox. Check it.
- Click on OK once you have finished.
- You will now see the Run Dialog box when you press the Windows + R key combo.
- Press Enter to activate Windows XP with the command msoobe /a.
How to activate Windows XP if you have lost your product key?
Several solutions can be followed if you lose your genuine product key for Windows XP activation.
Use a Key Finder
If you do not have Windows XP support, you can find key finding programs that can generate an activation key for you for a small fee or for free.
All you have to do is let the key finding program scan your computer.
This application scans your system and shows you the product key of your system, which is one of the best options available.
Key finding software and repositories typically provide you with illegal and pirated product keys. We do not support third-party, unverified and illegal means of generating product keys, such as key generators.
Unlike pirated product key generators, Win KeyFinder decrypts your existing key instead of generating one for you.
It is because of this encryption that you cannot see the product key manually on your system, and you have to enter it manually.
With Win KeyFinder, your product key is only retrieved from the System Registry and it is the same one you used when you first installed Windows.
It is not illegal to use Win KeyFinder to decrypt your original key.
Locate the Original Key
Prior to April 2014, it would have been a walk over the brook. But with Windows XP no longer supported, support will wave a big ‘no’ when you ask them to dig through old keys for old versions of Windows (here, XP).
The original key can be found by searching the computer physically. The key may have been written on or taped to the computer, laptop or monitor at some point in the past.
If you are unable to find the key in the purchase paper or email, it is possible that it is in your old emails or fillings. Look through your old emails and fillings to see if it is there.
Changing Product Key
This is done using the Command Prompt and using regedit to open the Registry Editor. The idea is to replace the original product key with one you created in the Registry Editor.
Once you have the changed product key, you can enter this key to activate your Windows, so you don’t need to find the original key anymore.
This heading explains in detail how to change your Windows XP product key: “How to change your Windows XP product key?”.
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Conclusion
Although Windows XP is no longer supported by Microsoft, it still holds a special place in many users’ hearts.
However, activating Windows XP remains a challenge even though official support is long gone.
Although it’s possible to activate Windows XP even after support is over, it’s important to remember the risks associated with using an outdated and unsecured operating system.
For security, compatibility, and access to the latest features and updates, it is best to upgrade to a more modern and supported operating system as technology continues to evolve.