I am trying to re-install win xp pro and the cd key on the yellow lable that came with the disk will not work. When I get to the screen that asks for the cd key i enter it but It is not accepted. Have not called MS yet but if Iam not doing anything wrong here I will have get in line and hold for an answer from Redmond!
Awelbel 0 Newbie Poster
Recommended Answers
Jump to PostI'm in agreement with Thong_Inspector on this one. Are you sure you're using the right Windows CD key? The only time I've ever gotten that error is when I'm using the wrong key for the OS I'm installing (ie, Windows 98 CD key for Windows 98 SE won't work).
never …
Jump to PostI just had to Call MS to re-activate XP-Pro and Office 2003 (yet another self-induced crash!). I have never had to wait longer than a few minutes, as it seems they have moved most of their phone centers ooverseas. Quick and painless.
Jump to Postif you eye site is line mine watch out for those B s' that look like 8 s'
All 9 Replies
Thong_Ispector 2 Practically a Master Poster
It can only be one of three things...
1. You are typing it in wrong... Doubtful
2. The Key is not the same one that came with that CD
(There are different CD's )
3. There are reminants of an old system on the PC...
(Did you Fdisc then format or just trying to do a reinstall?)
Awelbel 0 Newbie Poster
Just the re-install with a quick format during the setup
condor117 0 Light Poster
never use quick format u will regret it and by the way call ms to get new key from them on free phone
alc6379 120 Cookie... That's it Team Colleague
I'm in agreement with Thong_Inspector on this one. Are you sure you're using the right Windows CD key? The only time I've ever gotten that error is when I'm using the wrong key for the OS I'm installing (ie, Windows 98 CD key for Windows 98 SE won't work).
never use quick format u will regret it and by the way call ms to get new key from them on free phone
Why will he regret quick format? I just about always use it, and rarely have problems. If you're simply reinstalling, it's a convenient way to wipe out the contents of the drive and reinstall.
Lurch 0 Newbie Poster
I just had to Call MS to re-activate XP-Pro and Office 2003 (yet another self-induced crash!). I have never had to wait longer than a few minutes, as it seems they have moved most of their phone centers ooverseas. Quick and painless.
Awelbel 0 Newbie Poster
OK I am going to call MS and get a new key Thanks for all the help! It has got me on the right track. I have never had a problem with quick format but have read that it is not always a good idea
caperjack 875 I hate 20 Questions Team Colleague
if you eye site is line mine watch out for those B s' that look like 8 s'
Catweazle 140 Grandad Team Colleague
Agree with caperjack.
Write down the CD key code, and underneath write down codes using any and all combinations of codes which would eventuate from a mistaken character. These could include
8 and B
0 and O
6 and G
amongst others.
Try all possible combinations before giving up ;)
Barbara Horn 0 Newbie Poster
How can I find my lost cd code for microsoft works program?
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