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license key problem re-installing windows xp RRS feed

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    Recently my C: drive crashed.  Dead as a door nail.  I went out and purchased a new hard drive, borrowed a Windows xp disk from a friend, and started the task of re-installing.  Unfortunately I didn't get very far.  When it got to the point to enter the key, I copied the key off the holographic sticker stuck to the box.  The sticker is for Windows xp pro, and the machine was purchased from a large pc manufacturer.  The installation program tells me that the key is not valid.  Why would the install program reject the product key?

    Thanks
    Monday, April 30, 2007 9:23 PM

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    Retro_aviator,

    If you plan on using the Product Key on the CoA on the computer, you have to use a genuine Microsoft systembuilder/OEM CD (these have "For distribution only with a new PC" printed in the holographic label).  Retail CDs will not accept the OEM Product Key and vice versa.

    Tuesday, May 1, 2007 2:36 AM

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    Retro_aviator,

    If you plan on using the Product Key on the CoA on the computer, you have to use a genuine Microsoft systembuilder/OEM CD (these have "For distribution only with a new PC" printed in the holographic label).  Retail CDs will not accept the OEM Product Key and vice versa.

    Tuesday, May 1, 2007 2:36 AM
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    Can this be any OEM CD, or does it have to be a disc from the manufacturer on the sticker.  The manufacturer did not provide a CD when I purchased this machine.

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    Tuesday, May 1, 2007 9:38 PM
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    Retro-aviator,

    Your best option for several reasons is to contact the major PC manufacturer and purchase a Recovery/reinstallation CD for this exact make and model of computer.

    If no Recovery CD is available you can use a genuine Microsoft systembuilder/OEM CD, then when installation is complete do a Telephone Activation.

    Do not use a CD from another manufacturer:  it is a violation of the End User Licensing Agreement and may lead to problems with hardware driver incompatibility.

    Tuesday, May 1, 2007 11:01 PM
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    Recently my Computer Crashed  and i tryed to get it back up by my self it took my awhile but i got it and now its telling me that my windows is not a genuine copy of windows what can i do to fix it i have the pruduct key number but i dont no how to put it in can you help me?

                                                                                thank you

                                                                                 carolyn

    • Proposed as answer by fire4605 Sunday, April 18, 2010 12:50 AM
    Wednesday, May 2, 2007 3:02 AM