How to Change a Windows XP Home Product Key

When you try to run Windows Update or install service packs to update your Windows XP Home system, you may receive the following error message: "The product key used to install Windows is invalid." Don't miss out on important security updates and system upgrades that could improve the performance of your computer. Instead, follow a few steps to change your Windows XP Home Product Key.

Instructions

1. Buy a legitimate copy of Windows XP Home. If you already have a copy of Windows XP Home that you've purchased, chances are likely that the one you have will work fine. However, if you've never purchased a copy of Windows, you will need to do so to obtain a product key. You can order Windows XP Home directly from Microsoft and receive a valid product key via email within minutes. An upgrade copy is cheaper and will work fine. There is no need to purchase the full version to update the product key.

2. Download Keyfinder (see Resources). Keyfinder is a free software program that will make it easy for you to change your product key. Choose "Save" if you are asked whether to save the file to your computer or open it.

3. Find the newly downloaded keyfinder.exe file on your computer. Double-click to run the program. Select "OK" if a warning box pops up.

4. In Keyfinder, select "Options," then "Change Windows Key." Locate your new Windows product key (or your old one, if it's not pirated), and enter it into the boxes. The product key is 25 digits long. After entering the Windows key, click "Change."

5. Select "File," then "Exit" to exit Keyfinder. Restart your computer. When your computer finishes loading, your new product key is active.

References

• Windows XP Timesaving Techniques for Dummies; Woody Leonhard; 2005

Resources

• Keyfinder