Serious problem with Windows Activation

Question

Hi,

30 days ago I reinstalled (foolishly) Windows XP on my Dell Inspiron 700m. I used the Windows XP Reinstallation CD that came with my computer, and I could tell something wasn't right. It wasn't a typical reformat that cleared my hard-disk. Instead all my program files were left in-tact, and only my documents were erased.

Anyways, after reinstalling I was prompted to validate my version of windows. So, like with all Dells, I entered the Product Key on the bottom of my laptop on my Certificate of Authenticity. When I did this, it said my product key is invalid and that I should contact the manufacturer of my product. I've tried entering the product key 5 times, just to make sure I was entering it correctly, and still no go.

It's been 30 days and now I can't log into my computer. I tried getting in touch with Microsoft and Dell, but it all costs money. I tried Dell PC Restore by pressing Control + F11 at the Dell screen, and for some reason that's not working at all. I think I may have messed it up during reinstall. Can anyone help me with this problem?

Thank you

Message Edited by rbhambha on 07-10-2007 06:32 PM

mombodog · Answer

Call this number in the US  1-888-571-2048    Toll-Free   briefly explain the situation, Microsoft will walk you through the activation process, at no charge.

rbhambha · Answer

Thank you for the number.

However, I have to have the activation screen open on my computer to do this. I cannot get to the activation screen. When I try and login to my computer, all it says is "Would you like to activate windows now? Yes? No?" When I click yes, I can see my desktop wallpaper, but nothing else. The Windows Activation screen never pops up either. What should I do?

rbhambha · Answer

Thank you very much. I think I got it!

simpswr · Answer

Reinstall . . this time delete the partitions and recreate them prior to installing . .   This is a great guide for reinstalling on a Dell:  http://www.djdenham.com/Install%20Procedures.htm

redwolfe_98 · Answer

my guess is that you couldn't activate win xp because it didn't need to be activated.. anyway, if you have now done a clean install of win xp, everything should be good..

if i ever see a prompt for activating win xp after i have reformatted and reinstalled win xp with a oem cd, i just ignore it.. of course, if i am not using a oem cd, but a retail cd, then i activate windows..

Message Edited by redwolfe_98 on 07-11-2007 08:43 AM

Windows General

Serious problem with Windows Activation

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