Re: windows acitvation problems

From: Bruce Chambers (bruce_a_chambers_at_h0tmail.com)
Date: 10/31/04 

Date: Sat, 30 Oct 2004 18:33:29 -0600

Twoshack wrote:
> Hi....After having our computer "restored" we were asked to
> activate
> windows....Typed in the same product key that is on the side of the
> computer (the authenticy sticker w/ the product number) and the
> computer wouldn't take it - called the telephone number - no help!
> Even went back to the store that "restored" the computer and they
> couldn't get it activated...Major annoyance. Microsoft recoginizes
> that the number has been used before so it won't allow us to
> "re-activate". Any suggestions on how to get around it? Microsofts
> answer was to BUY ANOTHER LISCENSE! Not likely...Please advise.
> Thanks!!!

    Have you contacted the computer's manufacturer for assistance,
since you have an OEM license? How, exactly, did you have your
computer "restored?" Did you use the original installation CD that
came with the computer?

    Product Keys are bound to the specific type and language of
CD/license (OEM, Volume, retail, full, or Upgrade) with which they are
purchased. For example, a WinXP Home OEM Product Key won't work for
any retail version of WinXP Home, or for any version of WinXP Pro, and
vice versa. An upgrade's Product Key cannot be used with a full
version CD, and vice versa. An OEM Product Key will not work to
install a retail product. An Italian Product Key will not work with
an English CD. No retail Product Key will work with a Volume Licensed
installation, and vice versa. Bottom line: Product Keys and CDs
cannot be mixed & matched. You have to have the specific type of
installation CD for which that license and Product Key was designed. 

-- 
Bruce Chambers
Help us help you:
http://dts-l.org/goodpost.htm
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html
You can have peace. Or you can have freedom. Don't ever count on 
having
both at once. - RAH

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