Validate Windows

[Bob]

I was going to download the windows spyware (beta) via the Microsoft web
page. Before the download started, I got a message to validate windows
before downloading. This is a new computer with preinstalled WinXp. As far
as I know XP already been activated. What does this message mean?


Thanks
Bob

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

Validation and activation are two different processes.

This page explains the importance of validating your Windows installation,
and the benefits of using only genuine Microsoft software.
http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/whyvalidate.aspx

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

Be Smart! Protect Your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/protect/default.mspx

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:

| I was going to download the windows spyware (beta) via the Microsoft web
| page. Before the download started, I got a message to validate windows
| before downloading. This is a new computer with preinstalled WinXp. As far
| as I know XP already been activated. What does this message mean?
|
|
| Thanks
| Bob

 

[Kerry Brown]

It is test by Microsoft of a method to check if your copy of Windows is
legitimate. They have indicated that at some time in the future they may
make this mandatory. Presently on the next screen you will be given the
opportunity to skip the validation and go directly to the download. If you
proceed with the validation make sure you have your Windows Product ID Key
handy. Most preinstalled OEM versions of XP do have the end user product key
entered. The validation process will ask you to enter it.

Kerry Brown
KDB Systems

 

[C A Upsdell]

It is test by Microsoft of a method to check if your copy of Windows is
legitimate. They have indicated that at some time in the future they may
make this mandatory. Presently on the next screen you will be given the
opportunity to skip the validation and go directly to the download. If you
proceed with the validation make sure you have your Windows Product ID Key
handy. Most preinstalled OEM versions of XP do have the end user product key
entered. The validation process will ask you to enter it.

Except that there is a serious problem with the validation process for
at least some OEM versions of XP. I had to go through the validation
process recently to install something on my Dell, but the process would
not accept the Product ID key, saying that my XP Product ID was not
valid because it was too short: and yet what I typed in was absolutely
correct.

 

[Kerry Brown]

Take this up with Microsoft. I in no way endorse Microsoft's practise. I can
understand why they are doing it but it obviously needs more testing. Was
merely telling the OP what to expect.

Kerry Brown
KDB Systems

 

[Bob]

OK I don't mind doing that but its my understanding that the initial XP key
on my new computer is a 'batch' key and does not match the key that I will
use when I have to reinstall XP. So is it asking me for the current 'batch'
key is does it want the key that was given to me?

Thanks
Bob

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Then choose the option to skip the optional validation process.
Assuming Validation becomes permanent, the bugs located now will help
improve validation in the future.

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Bob;
If you are asked to input a key, you need to use the key on a sticker
affixed to the computer.

 

[Guest]

The same thing happened to me. I have a new Toshiba laptop just purchased
directly from Toshiba's website. I tried to validate windows xp pro with the
correct product key from the back of my laptop. It said it was "invalid" I
called Microsoft and they referred me to this website. I still can not
validate on the beta site for spyware. I already have the spyware from Giant
on my desk computer. I will try to skp this and continue but I am concerned
that Microsoft does not recognize my authenic software. Any suggestions?

 

[Catamount]

The same thing happened to me. I have a new Toshiba laptop just purchased
directly from Toshiba's website. I tried to validate windows xp pro with the
correct product key from the back of my laptop. It said it was "invalid" I
called Microsoft and they referred me to this website. I still can not
validate on the beta site for spyware. I already have the spyware from Giant
on my desk computer. I will try to skp this and continue but I am concerned
that Microsoft does not recognize my authenic software. Any suggestions?

Its all because its an OEM version of Windows. You need to input who
made you laptop yadda yadda yadda. Does it with all companies that use
OEM software.