Licencing Question

[Big Tone]

I am trying to re-install Windows ME after replacing the hard drive. I am using the serial off the sticker on the case but Windows setup won't accept it. Does the disk itself need to match the serial (or vise versa)? I can't see how every Windows disk can match each individual serial key!!

Thanks in advance

Tone

[diver203_98]

It's not the serial number that you need. It is the CD Key Code. Without that you can't re-install windows. And are you using a restore disk or the Windows CD? One way to find the key code is: Open regedit - Hot_key_local_machine -software - Microsoft - Windows - current version, there you will find the product key.

[Big Tone]

I am using the CD key code off the label and installing Windows off the CD.
The CD I'm using did not come supplied with that PC but I thought that the CD's wern't matched with the key code. I have installed XP lots of times with my own CD but using the key supplied on the label on the PC that I was working on and this has always worked fine but doesn't seem to work with 98SE and ME for some reason.

[sgtspector]

The cd key of a version of windows that came installed on a pc with the purchase should have the letters "oem" in it somewhere.

[kevinf]

if the computer came with 98 then you can't use that key for windows me, because its only for 98 se

[glc]

You cannot use an OEM CD key with a retail or upgrade Windows 98/ME CD. It has to be another OEM CD. However, if the computer shipped with a proprietary restore CD, a regular OEM cd may not even work with that key.

It's semi-legal to use your CD key instead, and it will work. To me, the sticker on the case tells me that WinME is licensed for use on that computer.

The letters "OEM" are not in Win98/ME CD keys, only 95. 98 started the 5 groups of 5 alphanumeric.

[Big Tone]

The problem I have is that this PC is one that I am fixing for someone and they for whatever reason don't have the disks that was supplied when it was new.

What I thought was that if the PC has the Certificate Of Authenticity label on the case with the origional product key then any CD would work as long as you use the key off the original licenced installation.

I have formatted and installed XP Home off my own CD and used the product key that is supplied on the label and they have all accepted the key fine but I cannot get this one to work.

Maybe they are just gonna have to give Bill Gates some more hard earned!!! :-)

[glc]

As I said, just use YOUR CD key. It will work and it's close enough to legal to be okay.