Why do I have 2 different product keys on Dell Laptop

  • Thread starter Thread starter Sam
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Sam

I ran across a neat utility that checks your product code the other
day. To my surprise, it indicated a different product code (WPA) then
what is indicated in the sticker on my laptop. Why is this? BTW, I
know this is a legit Windows XP because I past all the validation
checks without any problems.

Thanks
 
Sam said:
I ran across a neat utility that checks your product code the other
day. To my surprise, it indicated a different product code (WPA) then
what is indicated in the sticker on my laptop. Why is this? BTW, I
know this is a legit Windows XP because I past all the validation
checks without any problems.

Thanks
Click to expand...
Manufacturer probably installed the OS on a single machine and
duplicated its hard drive for other units of the same configuration. As
a result all the machines shipped with the same product code, but each
have their individual product code for when the OS needs to be reinstalled.
 
I assume the product code should be on the windows user guide? I cant
recall since my notebook is about 18 months old. Or I suppose, I can
write down the product code from the key and use that when installing?
But, I also have a hidden partition that allows me to create my Dell
the way it was from day 1.
 
In
Sam said:
I ran across a neat utility that checks your product code the other
day. To my surprise, it indicated a different product code (WPA) then
what is indicated in the sticker on my laptop. Why is this? BTW, I
know this is a legit Windows XP because I past all the validation
checks without any problems.

Thanks
Click to expand...

This link will completely answer your question.
Find Product Key [CD Key]
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/ViewKeyXP.htm
--
Michael Stevens MS-MVP XP
(e-mail address removed)
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com
For a better newsgroup experience. Setup a newsreader.
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/outlookexpressnewreader.htm
 
|I assume the product code should be on the windows user guide? I cant
| recall since my notebook is about 18 months old. Or I suppose, I can
| write down the product code from the key and use that when installing?
| But, I also have a hidden partition that allows me to create my Dell
| the way it was from day 1.
|

The (master/factory) code the keyfinder you used found will not work for
reinstallation purposes.

The code you want is on a sticker on the bottom of the notebook. (assuming
you bought it new from Dell)

--
Doug

I'm not an MVP a VIP nor do I have ESP.
I was just trying to help.
Please use your own best judgment before implementing any suggestions or
advice herein.
No warranty is expressed or implied.
Your mileage may vary.
See store for details. :)

Remove shoes to E-mail.
http://spaces.msn.com/members/hillbillybuddhist/
 
In
Sam said:
I assume the product code should be on the windows user guide? I cant
recall since my notebook is about 18 months old. Or I suppose, I can
write down the product code from the key and use that when installing?
But, I also have a hidden partition that allows me to create my Dell
the way it was from day 1.
Click to expand...

When you use the hidden restore partition, you do not need to supply a
product key. If you use the Dell branded OEM XP install CD, you will need to
use the PK from the sticker located most likely on the bottom of the
notebook to input and will probably be prompted for either an internet
activation or confronted with a confusing message stating your version of XP
has been installed too many times. Ignore the unfounded accusation and you
will then be prompted to activate by phone. Follow the onscreen prompts to
activate and ignore Microsoft marketing's confusing dialogue.
--
Michael Stevens MS-MVP XP
(e-mail address removed)
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com
For a better newsgroup experience. Setup a newsreader.
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/outlookexpressnewreader.htm
 
Sam said:
I ran across a neat utility that checks your product code the other
day. To my surprise, it indicated a different product code (WPA) then
what is indicated in the sticker on my laptop. Why is this? BTW, I
know this is a legit Windows XP because I past all the validation
checks without any problems.

Thanks
Click to expand...


If you have a factory-installed OEM license, and haven't since
reinstalled the OS, the revealed Product Key is that of the drive image
used at the factory and not your specific Product Key; therefore, it
probably cannot be -- and definitely should not be -- used for a
re-installation.


--

Bruce Chambers

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