CD Rom Key Code

[Carol]

I just had a custom computer built to replace the Gateway
that I had numerous problems with. I kept the software
cds that came with the Gateway to install on my new
computer. When I installed Works Suite 2000 and tried to
open Word, it asked for the Key Code which could be found
on the "case", which I no longer have. I did keep the
sticker "Certificate of Authenticity" which has a product
ID#, but when I tried to use it, I received an error
message advising it was not the correct code. Can I get
around this or will I have to buy another Works Suite
software package?

 

[Kate G.]

If you purchased the original software from a retail outlet -- you could
contact Microsoft to get the # -- understanding that you will still be using
it only on one PC.

If it was an OEM version -- (came preinstalled on the PC) -- you would need
to contact the company that you purchased your PC from (sounds like Gateway
in this instance). However, it is my understanding (and I could be
wrong) -- that the software was licensed to use on THAT GATEWAY PC and if
Gateway understands you want to install it on another non-Gateway machine --
they may not need to give you the #.

Watch the newsgroup -- I'm sure if I am wrong -- a wiser individual will set
us both straight!

Kate in MN

 

[Suzanne S. Barnhill]

Kate is right: an OEM version is licensed only for the machine it came
installed on (which may be why the number on your COA doesn't work). But you
can purchase Works Suite 2004 (which includes Word 2002) for under $100, and
there is a $15 rebate offer currently in effect. This will be much the
simplest solution.

--
Suzanne S. Barnhill
Microsoft MVP (Word)
Words into Type
Fairhope, Alabama USA
Word MVP FAQ site: http://www.mvps.org/word
Email cannot be acknowledged; please post all follow-ups to the newsgroup so
all may benefit.

 

[Guest]

Kate and Suzanne,
I was trying to avoid spending the extra money, but it seems that is the best solution. Thanks for your input!
Carol