Windows XP Pro Activation Key

I want to create 2 identical computers (same hardware, motherboard, etc.). I have two licensed Windows XP Pro install discs and two Acronis True Image licenses. I have set up one computer with all the windows updates, XP tweaks and loaded software that I have multiple licenses for (Office, Norton AV) or free programs that do not need a license (Adobe, Spybot, AdAware, etc.).

I can use True Image to clone the disk of computer 1 so I can use it in computer 2. My only question is how do I change the XP Pro product key on the 2nd computer so that it uses the 2nd license on computer 2 after cloning the disk from computer 1? These are 2 separate retail XP Pro installation disks, not a multiuser license with install disk

I don't want to do a separate Windows XP Pro install because I spent several hours tweaking the computer to my liking and I would like each of them to be identical. The 2nd computer is going to be for my 80 yr old non-computer literate father-in-law that I will be managing for him using remote desktop protocol from 1000 miles away.

thanks,

Murray

 

I don't know much about this method but you can check it out here

 

I would recommend the following procedure instead:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;810892

 

It states that it is for the corporate version only, but I will give it a try. Has anyone else tried this method?

Thanks for the quick reply!

Murray

 

jimmytop,

This sounds even better. I'll give it a try.

Thanks so much.

Murray

 

I just found this it would definatly be the easiest way to change the key here

 

Wow, you guys are great. Unless someone has another way that is faster than 3.38 seconds , I'll do this.

Thanks for all your help!

Murray

 

I hope it helps you out.

bigc