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General discussion

windows validation

Jan 22, 2011 7:11AM PST

i was given a computer, updated sp3 etc, eventually got to a genuine validation tool page and discovered my product key issue. i cant get media player updates etc. i have other pcs, one with no drivers for the nic card...wont get online to download missing drivers=catch22 #1. other barely runs, registry errors...crashes...probably infected with multiple viruses. both have valid product keys. can i switch product keys to validate windows on the one that runs? i am a novice at this but have a 180+IQ...not stupid, just ignorant...please help.

Discussion is locked

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Have you contacted Microsoft....they should be able to help
Jan 22, 2011 11:15AM PST

you through the process.

VAPCMD

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validation
Jan 22, 2011 10:37PM PST

not directly. i can only speculate that someone tried to fix the pc by reformating the hard drive and installing a bootleg copy. i dont know why someone wouldnt backup their system regularly, keep the disks that came with the pc, pay for repairs, purchase programs to fix registry errors, remove malware etc. when people discard the copy of windows the pc came with (by formatting over it or deleting it), the product key gets discarded with it, right? then your stuck purchasing another copy of windows? cant i find the file containing the bogus product key and substitute the key from the sticker? maybe the copy is valid, just not on this machine? please explain?

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So the computer was a given unit.
Jan 23, 2011 6:10AM PST

And there are no CDs, XP CD KEY to work with. I see nothing truly amiss here since there is no valid license to install.

This is the PERFECT opportunity to install Linux and use the machine or ask if it's worth buying Windows 7 for it.
Bob

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product keys
Jan 23, 2011 7:09AM PST

given not new...trash-picked from the curb! the other two non working pcs have valid keys and are on the microsoft stickers on the machines. i could copy the program, key included and re-install. i'd rather just swap keys. i dont think xp pro will fit on one disk. can i just substitute a valid product key from a different sticker and trash one of the other pcs?

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ps
Jan 23, 2011 7:17AM PST

the two non workig pcs have valid licenses, working unit has invalid key. trying to avoid alot of (unnecessary?) work. no cds to work with, just the codes on the stickers.

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Best I can suggest is contact MS or contact the System Mfg
Jan 23, 2011 7:48AM PST

to see if you can get (purchase) CDs that may be available for that PC. They're usually about $15-$20.

VAPCMD

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Apologies in advance.
Jan 23, 2011 7:54AM PST

Since you have stickers and keys what's stopping you from trying what XP CDs you have?

I know that some feel entitled to XP but look at the problem here. You have dumpster or curb units so all bets are off here. It's up to you to get out there and try working with what you have.

Or try Linux.
Bob

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If this computer given to you has ...
Jan 23, 2011 8:08AM PST
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many thanks
Jan 23, 2011 11:55AM PST

that should do it, can't thank you enough