Hi,

I have just installed my legal copy of XP Home Retail with integrated SP2 (network install version), using the CD Key that came with it.

After installation had completed, I connected to the internet and tried to activate windows but got a message saying something like 'the key was unauthorised'.

I don't understand this. I last activated windows around 8 months ago, and although I have upgraded my soundcard and DVD RW drive, I am well over the 120 day period laid down by Microsoft, so any hardware changes i have made since last activation, should have been wiped out and activation should have been automatic.

I'm just wondering if, after integrating the service pack, I may need to call M$ to obtain a new key?

Anyone else had this problem?

Regards

I would just go ahead and make the call. Then you would know for sure.

Speaking as a man who has activated his legit copy many times, I can tell you that depending on the rep you talk to, they might only give you one activation and others might give you six or more or less. Either way, hardware change or not, when you run out you gotta make the call.