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    Vista Product Key on NB versus sticker on NB

    Discussion in 'Acer' started by x64Man, Nov 8, 2008.

  1. x64Man

    x64Man Notebook Consultant

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    Found something very interesting when trying to do a clean install of an OEM version of Vista HP x64 on my 8930. When I used the Product Key on the sticker on the bottom of my notebook to install it, it would not authenticate, so I ran a program to identify the Product Key of the Vista HP x64 installed on my notebook and found that they do not match. If I use the key found on the installed version to install it, it will authenticate. Does anyone know what's up with that?

    Thanks
     
  2. Lithus

    Lithus NBR Janitor

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    The key on the bottom is an OEM personal key and you have to call Microsoft to authenticate it every time. The key stored on your laptop is a generic OEM key that manufacturers use and thus has been already activated with Microsoft.
     
  3. Wishmaker

    Wishmaker BBQ Expert

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    Have a look here. It explains everything. This is what I use when I install my OS. Don't like the Asus Recovery CD...tis my way or the highway ;).