- For individual users
- Instant access to solutions
- Ask your tech questions
- Start your 30-day Free Trial
Main Topics
Browse All TopicsHello experts -
I began working with a new client, and several of their machines have had an XP activation hack applied, a service running as reset 5. It seems as if each machine has individual, valid keys, and the hack was applied by a long-gone temporary guy "just in case" the OEM installations might have to be moved to different hardware "some day".
We need to make this right - get rid of the hack, and get these machines activated. Some have run over a year, with entries every day in the event logs complaining that they needed to be activated, but no other noticeable symptoms. WPA won't even start, so to simply activate them now won't work.
I've found several files and registry entries that appear to be related to the hack, and have done some preliminary testing at getting rid of it. I can get the files and services removed, and the registry entries removed so that it doesn't seem like the hack is running, but I cannot get the WPA to work, to go out and activate with MS. I probably have not found all of the files or regedits that this thing has done....
Does anybody know anything about this hack - reset 5 - and how to get rid of it??
This question has been solved and asker verified All Experts Exchange premium technology solutions are available to subscription members.
Experts Exchange has been collecting answers to technology questions since 1996…3 million and counting! If you have a question, chances are we already have your answer.
If you can't find the exact answer you're looking for, ask our exclusive community of 50,000 experts. You’ll get a personalized answer from a trusted professional.
Thousands of free tech tips, tricks, how-to’s and tutorials are available in our peer reviewed articles section. See for yourself how smart our experts are, no login required.
Access the answers to your technology questions today.
30-day free trial. Register in 60 seconds.
Members of the expert community talk about why the experience at Experts Exchange is different than what you will find anywhere else.

Try it out and discover for yourself.
30-day free trial. Register in 60 seconds.
Join the community of experts here and help other tech pros by answering question in your area of expertise. You can earn FREE access to all Experts Exchange's premium features and resources.
Business Accounts
Answer for Membership