Microsoft is getting more and more picky about that product key and the Genuine Advantage program. So if you’re finding that the warnings and annoy-ware are getting to be too much to handle then reset it. To do so, first edit the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareMicrosoftWindowsNTCurrent VersionWPAEventsODBETimer registry key to be some number or letter. This will overwrite your existing product key and allow you to enter a new one. Next, click on Start and then Run and enter the following command (assuming Windows is installed in the c:Windows directory):
C:Windowssystem32oobemsoobe /a
This will bring up the Activate Windows wizard. Here, select to update using a telephone service representative. Here, select a location and type in your new Windows product key. Then click Next and restart. When Windows comes back up if the product key is taken then you will be looking at the Registration wizard. Complete and you’re done. Much easier than reinstalling Windows XP.