invalid key code message when upgrading to XP pro

Question

I've read the forum for about 45 minutes and can't find the answer. I have a brand new xps 140 laptop w/XP media. I have a legal copy of XP pro, but it won't accept the 25 digit key code. I got a new copy of software just to be sure, same thing. Virus protection is disabled, still no luck. Is there an easy fix to this yet? Thanks

1vera2 · Answer

Denny,Thanks for the response. The laptop came with XP media installed. I have the xp pro/w sp2 disk that I'm trying to upgrade it with. I'm using the code on the xp disk...no dice. Just for kicks, the code on the computer doesnt work either.

Denny Denham · Answer

1vera2,

Are you doing a clean install of XP Professional? Unless you have an upgrade version that is required. If you are doing a clean install do not use the 25-character Product ID on the sticker on your computer. Use the one with your new copy of XP Pro.

Mary G · Answer

Usually this happens when you read an 8 as a B, a zero as an O, a one as an L etc. Get a magnifier or a really good light and make sure it's the 25 digit alpha-numeric Product Activation key on the Certificate of Authority on the packaging, not a product code on the disk itself. Also make sure it's a new unused copy of Pro. The activation key is for the first computer it's installed on.

1vera2 · Answer

Mary,
Yup, did all that. After I was unsuccessful with my first set of XP pro on my laptop, I wanted to see if it worked on my desktop...which it did. Desktop has XP home, not XP media center like the laptop, not sure if that is the problem? The second set of software was only used on the laptop without success...ugh.

Windows General

invalid key code message when upgrading to XP pro

Was this post helpful?