Windows xp activation file backup

To restore your activation files after reinstalling Windows XP, you'll need to boot your computer in Safe Mode. To boot your computer in Safe Mode press the F8 key immediately after starting your computer. The Startup screen will display options for starting Windows XP. Select Safe Mode. Then restart your computer in normal mode. If you change the motherboard or make significant hardware changes, XP will require you to reactive.

But if you plan to reinstall XP on the same hardware, you can back up the activation status and then restore it after you reinstall and avoid the activation process. You can backup the Windows Product Activation database files to diskette.

They are very small. A directory listing from my XP Pro workstation:. Follow the steps below to save the activation status information in Windows XP and restore it once you rebuild your system.

These steps won't work for transferring activation information from one computer to another, or if you alter the hardware because the information contained in your "wpa.

This trick is only for reinstalling Windows XP on the same computer after formatting the hard drive. In Windows Explorer, double-click My Computer. Double-click the C drive. You may have to select Show the contents of this folder first.

Find the files "wpa. After you have reinstalled Windows XP on your reformatted hard drive, click No when asked if you want to proceed with the activation process.

Double-click My Computer. You may have to select Show The contents of this folder. Find the "wpa. Copy your original "wpa. Restart your system. Windows XP is now reinstalled on your reformatted hard drive. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Use precise geolocation data. Select personalised content. Create a personalised content profile.