Product Key

  • Thread starter Thread starter digijack
  • Start date Start date
D

digijack

Hello
I'm running Windows XP.I often get the message 'This
program is not responding'.
After closing it down, I receive a message giving me the
option to report the error to Microsoft, which I do. This
in turn informs me of an 'On-Line crash' and that up-dates
are available. The up-dates,it emerges, are critcal so I
attempt to download them. During the downloading process a
pop-up appears saying that the 'product key' is invalid.
How do I get a new product key that will enable me to
download the critcal up-dates?
Please advise.
Thank you.
 
You need to purchase a version of XP that is the same as that on your
system. It is very likely that you have XP Pro installed. Pirated versions
of XP Pro were released before XP went on sale. Microsoft has built a
process into SP1 and SP1a that can identify a pirated version based upon the
product key used during it's installation. As you are seeing that ability to
recognized pirated keys blocks the installation of SP1 and SP1a and
subsequent Critical Updates. If you purchase a retail version of XP Pro you
can swap your old invalid product key for the valid key that comes with your
new copy of XP Pro. Use this little keychanger
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/keyfinder.exe to make the switch. Run the
app and go to Options->Change Key then enter the new code and reboot. You
will be prompted to activate and you are legal. This is not illegal and
simplifies Microsoft's process found here
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q328874

Because the pirated version is an XP Professional version you must use an XP
Professional version if you simply want to make your already installed setup
valid. If you choose to go with an OEM version of XP Pro or go with XP Home
you will not be able to simply swap keys. You will be forced to complete a
fresh install. This is because of the difference in versions.
 
Greetings --

If you are trying to install Service Pack 1a and getting the
following:

The Product Key Used to Install Windows Is Invalid
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q326904

You need to purchase and use a _legitimate_ full retail copy of
WinXP Pro to perform a repair (a.k.a. in-place upgrade) installation,
using the new CD and Product Key.

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/directory/article.asp?ID=KB;EN-US;Q315341

Remember, you should also report whomever sold/gave you the
pirated software to the pertinent law enforcement agencies; you've
been defrauded.


Bruce Chambers
--
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