Ajit Gaddam: TechNews and Security

By default, Windows Vista can be installed, used and run without any license, product key or the need of activation for 30 days grace period, for purpose of trial or evaluation. Although Microsoft initially stressed that users should purchase a license with valid product key before the trial period expires, or else Windows Vista will lock into Reduced Functionality Mode. However, a “rearm” method has long since been discovered to be able to extend, or reset the remaining time for activation to another fresh 30 days, for up to 3 times.

To extend, reset or restart the initial OOB grace period of Windows Vista to another 30 days, use the following steps:

You need to run the command prompt under the Administrative mode. You can either use the step outlined below or just type in cmd in the Start Search Box. Once command prompt is displayed in search results, right click and select Run As “Administrator” and then follow from step # 3 otherwise follow from Step #1 as shown below.

Step # 1: Click on Vista Start button and key in Cmd in Start Search box.

Step # 2: Press on Ctrl-Shift-Enter to open Command Prompt with administrative credentials (equivalent to “Run as Administrator”).

Step # 3: In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter when done: slmgr -rearm or you can use sysprep /generalize

Step # 4: Reboot the computer.

Step # 5: Rearm again when the remaining activation grace period timer counts down to 0 days.

Rearm option resets the computer’s activation timer and reinitializes some activation parameters.

via [neowin.net]