Windows Home Server – The Pirate Copy
Well it didn’t take long. Windows Home Server has only been out for a month and a pirate copy of the final RTM OEM version has been leaked out onto torrent indexing sites The Pirate Bay and Demonoid.com.
The 1.54 GB torrent package even includes scans of the installation DVD, connector, restore and OPK CDs and a front package cover scan alongside the full ISO’s of the Installation DVD, connector, restore and OPK CDs.
Although the download does not include a serial key, down loaders have left comments at both sites providing serial keys to actually install the product with a genuine key, although trying to activate will not be successful because the key has already been blocked by Microsoft. But since Home Server is based on the Windows Server 2003 code base crackers are using a utility called AntiWPA3 v3.4.6 to bypass activation.
So now, those that have the know how, can download the full version of Windows Home Server, install it with a genuine serial number and not worry about it deactivating after 30 days since it doesn’t need activating in the first place. Now I’m sure that those that have downloaded this already have never had no intention of ever buying a proper licensed copy, but my research shows that this bypass activation utility has been around for over 2 years and nothing was done or changed on Home Server to prevent utility’s like this giving others a free ride when we have paid good money for our Home Server.
But then again I’m sure the pirate underground scene is never far behind or indeed in front of the software producers. That’s why company’s like Microsoft hire the hackers.
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Meant to say Boot bitmap instead of Logon Bitmap for step 8.
I was able to install Power Pack2 by clicking update button on Windows Home server Console via RDP. I have not installed connector and I am not using the backup functionality, so I don’ have any of those issues.
If you follow my suggestions, you can skip step 14 completely. As KerrAvon confirmed, value in step 14 is generated by the system, as long as you have all the other entries already populated in the registry. So far I have done 7 installations, and this value is never same, except for the second to the last value of 49. I also have a HP MediaSmart Server and only value 49 is common with rest of the values I have seen.
Don’t give up, if your first installation does not work. I tried many ways, and finally came up that was fully automated (no editing, no entering key, no clicking on prompts) once the installation process is stated. Use of Microsoft Virtual PC and QS.INI file was very helpful.
Txtsetup creates registry entries the end of text setup process and before the windows installation begins, so all the registry entries are already in place and Windows Setup has what it needs to generate the right value.
Guys,
Eventually got this to work.
I am just worried that the ‘files’ I used could be wrong, or cause problems? is this possible, or would it not have installed without the correct files, can they cause any problems? The install did work with my genuine vlk key though.
Only problem I have noticed is I get a warning when it startups saying a service failed to load, event log shows ‘winmgmt’, research on this shows it was a problem in server 2003 sp1, and its no problem. Could my files have made the install think its still sp1, or even have stopped sp2 installing? I think not and this problem is nothing, but am I litttle paranoid!
Thanks guys!
Swifty
Well crap! First attempt ended up with the error message: “A problem is preventing Windows from accurately checking the license for this computer. Error code: 0×80004005.”
I’ll try again from scratch and see what happens.
Second time was a charm. The instructions are working perfectly. Thanks for taking the time to write up a how-to.
Excellent work!, thanks to all involved. Do someone knows if the 9 files from the Enterprise Edition Of 2003 w/ SP2 will work ?
Can’t see why not – just need to use an Enterprise Key during the install process.
Anybody have any thoughts on my post above RE the injected files, and could they cause troubles?
Mark
Swifty – If you are seeing any problems with the OS then I would be concerned. WHS is based on Windows 2003 SBS SP2. You should use the SP2 version of the files I mentioned. The resulting install should proceed without errors.
hello all…it is possible to do a “repair install” with the VLK version of WHS in a actual home server installation (eval. mode)?
KerrAvon you have been a tremendous help. This really helps get around the WHS updates issue we WHS VLK users have had for over a year now. Power Pack 2 was released and to be honest I returned here to see if Spaceman had posted a link to it. Your instructions were simple enough and worked perfectly. I just tested my new install dvd ISO on Virtual PC and all went as advertised. I have successfully created a Standard VLK edition and a Standard Dell OEM edition that installs and updates without the gotchas we had in the earlier workarounds of this endeavor. Juggernaut, Spaceman and KerrAvon thank you for sharing your knowledge on this site.
You’re welcome!
Just to say have a look at this its real and works
for W H S… have a nice time
here the link:
http://www.mydigitallife.info/2008/08/11/easy-way-to-activate-windows-home-server-crack-and-bypass-activation/
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Easy Way to Activate Windows Home Server (Crack and Bypass Activation)
Windows Home Server is a home-based server operating system from Microsoft, where interested user can request for a free evaluation kit with installation DVD with 120 days activation free grace period to be delivered to user’s doorstep. To continue using Windows Home Server beyond 120 days free evaluation trial period, user will require to purchase a legitimate license, or try the following hack to crack and bypass the Windows Home Server activation requirement.
1. Click on Start button.
2. Click on Run.
3. Type regedit into the Run text box and press Enter.
4. Navigate to the following registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\WPAEvents
5. Note: From this step onward, the cracking process must be performed as quickly as possible, as it hacks activation stuff and Windows may change back the setting if there is a delay of more than few seconds.
Locate a string value named OOBETimer.
6. Right-click on OOBETimer, and click on Modify.
7. Change the value to FF D5 71 D6 8B 6A 8D 6F D5 33 93 FD.
Activation OOBETimer
8. Click on OK.
9. Right-click on WPAEvents and select Permissions….
10. Click on Advanced button.
11. Uncheck the check box for Inherit from parent the permission entries that apply to child objects. Include these with entries explicitly defined here.
12. Click on Apply.
13. When prompted, click COPY.
14. From there, highlight the SYSTEM line, and click Edit.
15. Choose the Deny option to ban all users from accessing and editing the key.
16. Click on OK.
17. Reboot the computer.
After the hack, Windows Home Server should run completely as a free copy, with users able to access Windows Update to get latest hotfixes and patches. The crack does not require BIOS mod.
To verify that the activation crack works after restarting the system, go to Start -> All Programs -> Activate Windows. The dialog should say Windows is already activated. Alternatively, go to Start -> Run and type oobe/msoobe /a.
Note: Some users reported that the method does not actually remove the activation grace period, even though it makes the system activated.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purpose only.
With KerrAvon’s method for creating a VLK version of WHS, does anyone know if you can use a Windows Server 2003 Standard Edition key obtained legally through Microsoft’s DreamSpark (basically free software for students)? Does that version count as VLK, and would I be able to use the Windows Server 2003 Standard Edition iso that I downloaded from Microsoft?
Currently I am using the AntiWPA method, and it works just fine even with all the updates installed (as of April 16/09), including PP2. Comparing these two methods, which do you guys think would hold up better to Windows Updates in the future?
Spd – not sure about the type of keys used in that program. If I had to guess that they are from the retail keys pool. Instead of using a 2003 VLK iso, you can use a retail 2003 ISO to extract the files and build a version of WHS that will accept the key you have.
Microsoft is always trying to thwart tools like AntiWPA so I can’t see it working forever. My version is completely valid – all Microsoft components and no hacks.
nobody answer my question???
jformigal – I have not tested that scenario. Feel free to give it a try and let us know the results.
Fresh installs are usually best, though.
KerrAvon: Thanks for the quick response. I followed your instructions carefully to create my own WHS version using files and a serial number from a Server 2003 Standard ISO (downloaded legally from Microsoft) and it works perfectly. Activation went just as it should with a legal copy. This is great news for students who have access to free Microsoft software via DreamSpark.
Spd, is there any way that an non american can get access to Dream spark’s free program? For an example to get the access keys that are required from a friend that lives in US, and with it to download from my country?
Dreamspark is for students internationally. I am from Canada and I just registered with the student ID from my university.
Instead of 00C04944 in the system prefix you can use 00604A24 from the OEM version of WHS and then it doesn’t say evaluation version when installing the connector.
In the Install.cmd file change
SET SysPrefix=%SysPrefix:~0,8%00C04944
to
SET SysPrefix=%SysPrefix:~0,8%00604A24
gtr – that is odd – all of my installs using the eval media and the 00c04944 prefix do not yield an evaluation message when installing the connector.
I have a question. I made all the changes that kerravon mentioned in his great tutorial, i made an iso file, and i installed it on a virtual box. Everything was great exept in the end there was no OOBE Wizard! Why is that? I need the oobe wizard because that is the WHS behind Server 2003. Pls help me. I used Windows Server 2003 Enterprise edition Sp2. Thanks Again.
It is fixed. I used the original WHS DVD wich was delivered to me by mail and an original Server 2003 standard edition with licence from Dream Spark. Now Everything works! Thanks again to everybody who contributed to this wonderful fix!!
To jformigal. I made a VLK version of WHS and sucessfuly made a server reinstalation. Just make shure to remove all extra HDD’s from your server because it is to damn slow with them. believe me i have tried with all my HDD’s and only with the primary HDD. There is a diference.
Hope to be at some help….
thanks Mike, soon I’ll reinstall / repair my evaluation install, then I’ll post the results.
hello all.. i need some help where can i get product key for Windows Server home 2003 coz the old version already block…(pirate version)
TQ
How are you guys injecting the files into the iso? after i unpack the iso added the modded files and “9 Files” and create a new iso with imgburn i keep getting errors in vmware that it can’t load the cdrom?
A
re you using magiciso or something like that to inject straight into the iso file?
Using WinISO – see directions above.
KerrAvon
Before you put it to rest…
This started 2 years ago, and since you jumped in 6 months ago, you gave us the solution and perfected it during the process.
On behalf of all my friends who enjoy WHS “free” because of you, may I thank you for your hard work.
THANK YOU!
Sevos – You’re Welcome!
Thank you KerrAvon, can’t believe i missed that
Hi guys,
I have WHS installed on my server, but the System Properties only says “Windows Server 2003 for Small Business Server (SP2)”
I have applied the WPA crack and now I don’t have an activation problem.
Only thing is that, in regedit, under “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSe\Control\ProductOptions”, it says “Small Business
Small Business(Restricted)
Terminal Server”
No mention of WHS anywhere.
Are there changes I can make exclusively to the registry to make this copy get recognized as a WHS instead of Server 2003 for SBS?
Please please please do reply!
The WPA crack does not work. Read my entries in this thread for a procedure for creating the VLK version of Home Server.
Actually, the AntiWPA 3.4.7c patch DOES work. It’s been a few days since I applied the crack. Even tried changing the system date to one month later. No problems. When I click on “Activate Windows” in the Start menu, it says “Already activated”. So I don’t see a problem with that.
Only trouble is the last step in the installation which didn’t happen, and so the installation doesn’t recognize itself as WHS, but as SBS instead..
Can any messing around be done purely in regedit to change this? Not sure if the problem is with the WHS setup we’ve got, coz we’ve tried reinstalling a couple of times and it’s the same problem every time..
Any ideas?
Changing the product edition after setup is sometimes a messy situation. If you read my threads above you will find the keys and values you need to modify to convert your SBS edition into WHS. No promises though – I have no idea how or why your install came up WHS. My advice, build the VLK edition and reinstall for best results.
Hy guys,
i have the evaluation build 3790 of the WHS with service pack 2 and all the updates up to 09/09/09 installed. i tried to call Microsoft after a painful 45 minutes of trying to get a number to reach service for WHS. just got of the phone with the sales rep to purchase a license since my 120 days evaluation is up and the server keeps rebooting after 1hr, she told me that she does not even know what Windows home server is and it’s to old so i cannot purchase anything form them. one other sales rep says that i have to purchase it through HP. now i have already build a server around WHS and have lots of files, music, pics and setup on that WHS. i have read through the post and need a clear explanation on how to activate is and prevent it from rebooting every hour. do i go with the 2k3 VLK option or the AntiwPa option and where would i find the 2k3 Standard VLK ISO and serial or the AntiwPa 3.4.7c.
Thanks a million
Boulepick,
Microsoft did not explain it very well. WHS is not a retail product – it is only sold through OEMs (like HP). You cannot get support for a home-built WHS.
AntiWPA is a risky option because MS can detect it during updates and disable it.
The VLK option is your best bet – but you must have access to the necessary files to build it. VLK images of Windows Server 2003 Standard Edition are only available to MSDN or Volume Licensed customers of Microsoft. If your company has such a license, you may be able to get a VLK iso from your IT department. Otherwise, you will have to find a copy of the correct files I mentioned. There is a procedure to reinstall WHS on top of an existing install without destroying the data. You can google that for details.
Good luck.
ok thanks KerrAvon for the quick Response, i will see if i can get those files and proceed with the re-install.
thanks
Hi,
I’ve been trying this using KerrAvon’s guide, once i enter my VLK for Server 2003 and try to proceede i get “Setup sources are corrupt: cannot check the product key”
I used windows server 2003 standard and slipstreamed sp2 into the build, then extracted the files from that image.
Step 5 of KerrAvons guide says add the reg keys at the bottom of the last [addreg] section that last section in my hivesys.inf is just a bunch of character returns?
then has the [strings] section of the inf
any ideas as to where i’m going wrong?
Much appreciated
Hi Ita,
Place the inf entries after this line in the hivesys.inf:
HKLM,”SYSTEM\Setup\AllowStart\SamSs”,,0×00000010
Hi KerrAvon,
That worked perfectly, thanks alot
KerrAvon,
I tried to do a “reinstallation”. The system reported a bad hive and stopped installation. When I did a fresh install it worked beautifully. Terrific job!
Has anyone had any experience with PP3? Does it cause any problems with the VLK WHS?
I’m testing it and so far so good…
Chandler, installed that right away to be completely compatible with my win7 64 bit lan (4pcs). works perfectly fine.
Awesome! I’m glad to hear it.
Does anyone have PP3? I can’t seem to get it from MS Connect anymore?
Also, is it still a beta? Or is it basically RTM now?
Running PP3 final bits on WHS VLK. No problems so far.
Works for me too. I haven’t had any problems with WHS. At least none related to activation.
For some reason, one day when I turned on my server, my drives just started filling up. They didn’t stop until both were at 99%. I think one of my shares decided that it needed to duplicate itself without telling me (or the console).
I ended up just reformatting the whole thing, so I’m okay again.
Thanks again KerrAvon!
hello,
for about 3 months my whs is running now. i installed a evaluation copy and then cracked it with the antiwpa patch, means with editing the activation files in the registry. but for about one week my homeserver is running pp3. so no problem i thought, it runs fine. since i’ve seen the screen “6 days left for activating”, i would try to “activate” a second time via the registry thing but i forgot to do it within these 6 days left over
so today i wanted to install a new addin but after my console restarts there is a windows saying ‘activate your whs now or you won’t can start the console’. okay so i pressed the ‘activate now’ button. but then the activation utility opens, and says “your whs has already been activated”. even if i log on myself directly AT the home server the error message, respectively the ‘already activated’ window, pops up.
and if i boot the whs in safe mode i can’t log in because i have to boot it in the normal mode to start the activation utility.
what can i do now? has anyone an idea? i do not really want to reinstall the os?
thx and best regards