Activation/Product code

[SARGE]

Have Win7 and will reinstalling on new board and hd. When I go to control panel and system it gives me "windows is activated" and the product code. However, these numbers aren't the same as the product key on the box. It's an OEM copy if that makes any difference. I know I'll have to call in when installing, can't wait, hope they speak good English since my hearing bad.

Just wondering which set of numbers I type in when first installing - ones from control panel/system or ones on box??

[ryuk999]

Originally Posted by SARGE Just wondering which set of numbers I type in when first installing

Do you mean reinstall? if so then you'd type in the key on the box when you use that disc.

[SARGE]

I always type that when doing a re-install on XP, etc. and never noticed if there was a difference in the key on box and one in system info. Why would the one in system info be different?

[Force Flow]

Are you sure it's not the "Product ID"?

[SARGE]

according to control panel, system: "The windows 7 home premium product key can be found on installation disc holder inside the windows package. Activation will register the product key to this computer". The key on my package ain't the same one showing up in CP/system under "windows is activated, product ID: .................

[doubledragon5]

If you have to call in the reactivation Sarge, a window will pop-up with a set of numbers and under that a row of boxes.. You will give MS those numbers, and when the validate it, the will have you type in a set of number they give you and you will be done..

[Force Flow]

Wait a sec...is this a branded PC? Or a custom job?

[SARGE]

Originally Posted by Force Flow Wait a sec...is this a branded PC? Or a custom job?

a pc I built long ago. HD has had Win98, XP, Vista and Win7

[MaxRat]

thats the Product ID...it isnt the same as the Key...

[David M]

After the product has been activated once and you get a product activation notification the second time, you have to call Microsoft. The activation code that originally came with your OS CD is no longer valid. They will ask you for a bunch of numbers and letters that are buried a ways in your OS. They will then give you a bunch of numbers and letters back that you have to enter in order to reactivate your software.

I have gone through this routine numerous times. Whatever you do, do not say it is for a new computer. Say it is for your computer and you had to change out XYZ hardware parts.