AR51SU Product key: Installed vs Sticker

Any idea why the product key on the sticker does not match the product key inside the vista installation. Is the product key on the sticker still valid.

 

It's always like that. Go back to the days of Windows 95. The product key from the OEM sticker of retail are intentionally hidden. So, the one you see on the screen is derived from the the product key with some secret formula. I guess they do it to prevent people from stealing product key by simply examining the screen.

 

Sony uses one OS image with all drivers and apps integrated in factory to install on the laptops. To be able to do this, they have one product key. This saves time and money for them. BTW, this key is already pre-activated, so you don't have to activate windows on your notebook yourself and let it call home.

The serial on the bottom of your notebook is just the proof that you have a valid license for the os. You can use it to install a clean version of the OS, however, internet activation doesn't work for this one. afaik you have to call microsoft to have it activated.

both of the keys are valid.

hendra: I think you got product key (which you enter at setup) and product ID (which shows up under system properties) mixed up....

 

thanks for the info.