Windows XP Re-Activation

[GregRo]

I bought a Dell computer about 18 months ago. About 5 months ago lighting
struck nearby and my motherboard was dead. Since I could not wait for Dell to
send me a new motherboard, I went and bought a new one with the same chipset.
When I installed it, everything worked fine although I had to re-activate XP
(I ended up talking to someone (I can't remember if it was Microsoft or Dell)
who eventually helped me get it activated).

THe other day XP decided to continually reboot itself. THe only solution I
had was to re-install the OS since the repair function did not help. I was
not even able to enter in Safe mode. The problem I now have is that I cannot
re-activate XP. MS online re-activation says that I ahve the incorrect
product key (or something like that). Dell does not give me any option to get
software support. The MS telephone activation is now automated and gives me
the same error as the online version.

So, the question is: Since I basically have a Dell system with a new
motherboard, do I now need to buy a new version of XP? This sounds outrageous!
Help!

Did dell every send you a motherboard? If so, put that in.


Also,
You might try the key fix
http://www.angelfire.com/in4/computertips/key.html

Use the key on your machine.

The key fixed works for some and some it did not work for.

I thought Microsoft was supposed to answer the phone when calling in
for activation.



Greg Ro

 

[TeVan]

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/deploy/oempreac.mspx

 

[CHARLES BIHLER]

What if you are running an OEM provided Media Center 2005 upgrade that
requires activation each time you install it. Do the keys listed literally
work for just Pro and Tablet?

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/deploy/oempreac.mspx

 

[Guest]

I was using the original Dell-supplied Windows XP disk.
I bought a new version of Windows XP and all is well (other than my wallet).
Frankly, both Microsoft and Dell need to adjust their business models. Dell
has definitely lost me as a customer and MS is on the verge. One of the key
problems is that neither company offers any type of decent customer support
(speaking to an enabled customer support person).

 

[plew]

Requiring a new version purchase of winxp is how m$ makes more
money & getting "customers" to pay twice. Profits/earnings
for m$ went up as per financial reports.

 

[TeVan]

I have no clue. I just came on that page yesterday and thought it may be a help to some people.

Cheers...

 

[Bob I]

As in many cases haste makes waste. Most insurance companies won't
reimburse non-authorized repairs either. Welcome to the real world.