Reformatted, Now my Product Key Doesn't Work

[Guest]

I reformatted my computer a while ago to get rid of a couple of viruses and
now I cannot activate Windows XP Home. It says my activation code has
already been used, and the telephone number they tell me to call is actually
an inactive voicemail account. The installation help line on the Microsoft
site is similarly unhelpful. I also cannot e-mail tech support because it
says I've used up my free questions (which I have not).

Is there another way to to get ahold of a tech support person, or remedy
this problem?

 

[Guest]

Thanks for responding, both of you.

I know the problem stems from the fact that I used this key before. I
number they give me that is supposed to help me activate it over the phone
leads me to an unused voicemail system. The number listed on this Microsoft
site is not a working number. I am not in the UK, sadly, so that doesn't
apply.

Theoretically, if I can't get this to work, would I have to buy another copy
of Windows? Or should I try paying $35 for a support request. I'm
relatively poor college student, so I'm looking for whatever's cheaper.