so i've built a new computer and i've installed my xp disc on it but i've run into a problem with the whole activating windows thing. i previously installed xp on another computer for a friend that i rebuilt and used the product key from the bottom of my laptop. it worked. i also activated windows on that computer i rebuilt with it. so what i don't understand is how come when i use other ppl's xp product keys from their vendor comps and change my product key accordingly, i get "incorrect key" message. it worked before, how come not now? can anyone help and suggest a way i can get activate xp w/o spending more money on more stupid winblows products? thanks in advance...

The basic Microsoft rules are one copy of Windows on one PC. Also, there are different sets of Product Codes for different types of customer, e.g. corporate, manufacturer, etc.

I think any attempt to activate an OEM issued XP product key over the internet now fails. An OEM key I activated over the internet in July (so completed after the crackdown by Microsoft in February ) wouln't reactivate last week after a new hard disk was installed. As you say it comes up "incorrect key". I 'phoned Microsoft to activate and it went through OK.

that's good to know. i'll call microsoft as well. thanks guys.