Hello trevco,
Computers, which are built by large manufactures that come with Windows Pre-Installed, come with two (2) Product Keys:
A)
OEM SLP: This key comes pre-installed in Windows, when it comes from the Factory. This key is geared to work with the OEM Bios Flag found only on that Manufacturer's computer hardware. So
when Windows was installed using the OEM SLP key (at the factory) Windows looks at the motherboard and sees the proper OEM Bios Flag (for that Manufacturer and that version of Windows) and Self-Activates. (that's why you did not need to Activate your computer
after you brought it home)
B)
COA SLP: This is the Product key that you see on the sticker on the side (or bottom) of your computer. It is a valid product key, but should only
be used in limited situations (sush as if the OEM SLP key stops self-activating for whatever reason). The key must be activated by Phone. (Note: All manufacturers that use the OEM SLP system are required by contract to include a Certificate of Authenticity
(COA) sticker, that has a COA SLP key, on the computer)
Your Windows is using an OEM SLP key, but (for whatever reason) cannot see the special instructions in the computer’s motherboard and is unable to Self-Activate.
To fix the issue, you will need to change out the OEM SLP key with the COA SLP key.
The normal way to do this is to click the ‘Start’ button, right-click ‘Computer’, select ‘Properties’ and then click ‘Change Product Key’ (located in the lower right-hand side of the window). Enter the
COA SLP key and follow the instructions in the Change Product Key Wizard.
The fact that Vista isin Reduced Funtionality Mode indicates that Vista's Licensing Store may also be corrupt. Follow the below steps that will recreate the Licensing Store
as well as help you change the product key to the COA SLP key.
1) Open an Internet Browser window.
2) Type: %windir%\system32 into the browser address bar.
3) Find the file CMD.exe
4) Right-Click on CMD.exe and select 'Run as Administrator'
5) Type: net stop slsvc (it may ask you if you are sure, select yes)
6) Type: cd %windir%\ServiceProfiles\NetworkService\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\SoftwareLicensing
7) Type: rename tokens.dat tokens.bar
8) Type: cd %windir%\system32
9) Type: net start slsvc
10) Type: cscript slmgr.vbs -rilc (It may take a long time for this to complete, please be patient)
11) Restart your computer twice.
12) You may be required to enter the Product Key and/or Activate. (be sure to use the product key from the sticker on the side or bottom of the PC and to Activate by Phone)
Thank you,
Darin MS
