Microsoft has a neat little way to prevent software piracy of their Windows operating system. "Windows Genuine Advantage" with its "Product Activation" requirement. Essentially, even with a valid product key, you still need to activate your Windows to ensure that only one computer is using that specific product key. If you can't activate your Windows, there being many reasons for this, you are left with a 30 day grace period to change your product key to one that is fully valid or get in contact with Microsoft and plea your case.

Once your grace period is up, Windows refuses to let you login anymore. You cannot access your files. You cannot go on the Internet. You cannot do anything, except the thrill of trying to activate Windows.


Well, luckily for me I do not have to worry about this issues, as my Windows is valid and activated. However, for those who do not and have been so unfortunate enough to have their Windows expire on them, I present to you a bit of relief. How to gain access to your files
read the rest:
tomorrowtimes.blogspot.com/2006/12/how-to-login-to-expired-windows.html

Basically it involves using the narrator to access internet explorer, and then from there a few other little tricks... but it in no way makes the computer totally usable... so it's like a small fart of a trick rather than a big ol' pile of hot and steamy poo of a trick.