obtaining a valid Product key

[Antonia]

I tried to download the updates for windows xp, (I am
pretty sure I have Professional) and after trying to
download the main download they suggested, error came up
and said "Product key used to install windows is invalid.
Contact system admin. to obtain valid product key."
How do I get a valid product key?

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

If you are getting the following error message when attempting to update to SP1:

Error Message: The Product Key Used to Install Windows Is Invalid
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;326904&Product=winxp

You'll have to purchase a new "Full Version" of Windows XP Professional
and perform a "Repair Install" using the new Windows XP Pro CD and Product Key
that comes with it. (You cannot simply change the Product Key)

How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Is Your Copy of Windows Legal?
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/howtotell/ww/windows/default.mspx

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User

Be Smart! Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/

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| I tried to download the updates for windows xp, (I am
| pretty sure I have Professional) and after trying to
| download the main download they suggested, error came up
| and said "Product key used to install windows is invalid.
| Contact system admin. to obtain valid product key."
| How do I get a valid product key?

 

[Bruce Chambers]

Greetings --

If you are trying to install Service Pack 1a and getting the
following:

The Product Key Used to Install Windows Is Invalid
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q326904

You need to purchase and use a _legitimate_ full retail copy of
WinXP Pro to perform a repair (a.k.a. in-place upgrade) installation,
using the new CD and Product Key.

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/directory/article.asp?ID=KB;EN-US;Q315341

Remember, you should also report whomever sold you the pirated
software to the pertinent law enforcement agencies; you've been
defrauded.


Bruce Chambers

--
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