'Activate copy of Windows XP' problem

[weavero]

This is driving me absolutely kerayzee! Every time I try to log on to Windows XP (a genuine copy, and I'm on SP2), a screen pops up asking me to activate my copy of Windows. I choose the second option, to activate by phone. I am then given a long numerical key which I input, which in turn activates windows. The trouble is, every time I restart, I have to repeat this procedure and it's getting bor-ing. Anyone know what I can do? Why is Windows so flaky!? (Don't answer that...)

[boobesque]

after you start windows you may indeed activate by phone. after this you should go to the microsoft update website. before you are allowed access to the website, microsoft will read your product key and register for you. after this your problem will stop. unless of course it is a copy. on many occasions shops have been found selling pirate copies of windows. they look totally real. hologram and everything.

[weavero]

Boobesque, interesting what you say about the pirate copy. The disc I have looks perfectly legit, but ... could be iffy. Thanks for the answer.