Recent news has emerged that the algorithm for Windows XP product activation has been cracked. This means that now anyone has the ability to generate a valid product key for the ancient operating system and activate it offline. Microsoft had turned off the servers required to activate Windows XP long ago, leaving owners of the product key helpless to activate the system without calling the company. Those looking to save some time and activate XP themselves now can do so with the security of the code being cracked.
This news brings up the age-old question: why would someone want to use Windows XP when it is clearly an outdated operating system? The answer is that some individuals, especially businesses, use legacy software or hardware that are only compatible with Windows XP. It may be possible that using other OS would require costly upgrades to the necessary machinery, making it difficult to replace with modern, up-to-date systems. Thankfully, those using Windows XP can now activate the system without having to worry too much about the process.
Analytics firm Statcounter reveals that Windows XP accounts for 0.35% of all Windows users, behind Windows 8, which stands at 1.28%. This indicates the rarity of users still using the ancient operating system. A unique trend of cracking old Microsoft operating systems has emerged recently, with Windows 95’s activation being hacked with the help of ChatGPT.
For those needing to activate their Windows XP, this crack is a useful tool to keep the system going, as long as their machine is not connected to the internet to keep it safe from potential vulnerabilities. Although this is a very small number of people, those stuck in this position can now get themselves up and running without any extra fuss.
