no start button appearing - invalid product key

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  i've had this laptop for over 2 years - and was purchased at best buy.
  
  all of a sudden after restarting one day, i see this screen where it says my version of windows is not genuine
  
  i've tried entering the product key that on the microsoft label on the computer and it says it is invalid
  
  when i go into the windows advantage program for other options, it mentions that i can activate windows online or by phone.
  
  1.  online option
  
  it mentions using the start button -- but my start button is not visible at all.  it says i am in reduced functionality mode.  so i'm not sure how to follow what it is asking since there is no start button.  the only window that is visible is the one that opens about genuine microsoft software.
  
  2.  phone option
  
  it mentions you can activate by phone.  but it does not tell me how.  there is no phone number.  only directions on how to do it online, so i am at a complete impass.
  
  any help please?

  Friday, August 1, 2008 12:08 PM