XP ACTIVATION PROBLEM!!

[vexing000]

My family has 3 home built computers (my Dad's, my own, and my little brother's). My bro's is the newest and we recently put our copy of XP pro on it, about a month ago. The problem is this: it's a legitamate XP Pro CD, that my dad bought from MicroCenter, but it's already being used on my dad's and my computer. Since it's a legit CD KEY installing it on my bros computer was no problem, but it's been asking him for activation, and every time he tries it says it's been activated too many times (i assume 2 is the max since my dad and myself have used it.) I've been told about activation cracks and programs you can download online but I avoided those because i'm not sure if they're illegal to use.

Here's the problem: Just within the last couple days my brother has been locked out of his computer because it is requireing him to active his windows. He has a lot of important school work on it so formating and re-installing is out of the question. Is buying a whole different copy of XP the only solution? because if it is that's rediculous, and i'd sooner try useing a crack. Anyways, suggestions and solutions are GREATLY appreciated. Thanks!

[liljim]

The legal approach would be to purchase another key from microsoft.......

[vexing000]

[PCguy]

This is what I suggest.

Purchase a new copy of XP. Reinstall XP over the existing XP using the new Serial number. If you can't use the new Serial number, install using the old one and follow the MS instructions on chaning your key.

To reinstall, set the primary boot drive to your CD drive. Then insert the WinXP disc and reboot. Let the setup load (go through all of the driver and DO NOT use the recovery console). Select the reinstall WinXP option (may not read exactly like that) and let it do its thing.

[vexing000]

by reinstalling will he lose all his stuff?

[PCguy]

No he will not if he follows the reinstall option.