Windows XP activation -- cautionary tale

[Guest]

I have experienced a problem with the Microsoft Product Activation
system that might be useful to relate to others, lest they make
the same mistake and suffer the consequences. I recently bought a used
computer running Windows XP. When I bought it, XP had already been
activated and I thought everything was fine. However, I did not get the
original CD and certificate of authenticity for XP. Mistake!

I later added hardware to the computer, which triggers re-activation.
After numerous activation attempts, Microsoft declared that the old
activation was not renewable because my product activation key was
invalid. (The product key is stored on the machine during installation
and may be retrieved without the original CD.) Why was the key invalid?
Microsoft would not say.

Furthermore, they told me that I did not actually own a copy of XP
because I didn't have the original installation materials. Apparently
the original activation is irrelevant. Bottom line-- I am going to have
to purchase a new operating system. Heads up!

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Unfortunately that is an old and not to uncommon story.
Without the original Product Key there is no valid license.
This may explain your invalid Product Key:
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/invalpk.htm

Whenever buying a used computer, the buyer should be sure all included
software is properly licensed.
Can you get the license from the seller?
Did the seller know it was invalid?
You may have a legal case against the seller.

 

[In Disguise]

http://www.novell.com/products/linuxprofessional/