Here we go again? Shortly after the beta of WinXP Service Pack 1 was released, locking out installations using leaked activation keys, a workaround with what appears to be a replacement key began circulating on IRC. We can therefore look forward to a repeat of the Windows Product Activation wars that were waged during the original XP beta, as crack and block alternate until the product actually ships.

At which point, barring the invention of an entirely new and uncrackable system, the final crack will be unveiled. At the moment, the SP1 beta won't install on systems using at least one widely-leaked activation key. The workaround circulating appears to include a replacement key, but given that this could be easily blocked by Microsoft in future builds, its main importance is that it explains a procedure for deactivating the system and entering a new corporate key. Which could even be a genuine one. You never know.