How to Disable Windows XP Validation

Your Windows XP serial number authorizes and validates the installed copy of the operating system on your computer. If you decide to sell the computer, you may want to keep your Windows XP copy. Removing validation forces the new owner to use his own Windows XP serial number to validate the software. You can remove validation of your Windows XP copy in the computer's Registry Editor.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows XP "Start" button and select "Run." Type "regedit" and press "Enter" to open the Windows Registry Editor.

2. Navigate to "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\WindowsNT\Current Version\WPAEvents" in the Registry Editor.

3. Right-click "OOBETimer" in the center detail pane. Select "Modify." In the opened window, delete the value shown. Click "OK." This deactivates the Windows XP validation serial number.

Tips & Warnings

• After deactivation, a valid serial number is required to reactivate the operating system installation.

References

• Microsoft: How to change the Volume Licensing product key on a computer that is running Windows XP Service Pack 1 and later versions of Windows XP