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    Vista Won't Activate

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by T-Hawk, Nov 6, 2008.

  1. T-Hawk

    T-Hawk Notebook Enthusiast

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    I just recently bought a new hard drive for my Thinkpad, and now Vista is saying that my code isn't valid for activation. I used the code on the bottom of the computer, and my copy passed WGA, why won't it take my activation code?

    I need this computer for my classes, and there is no way I can afford to buy a new copy of Windows, please help!
     
    T-Hawk, Nov 6, 2008
    #1
  2. qhn

    qhn Notebook User

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    Have you tried calling up MIcrosoft Support? It is free, and takes just a few minutes to review the COA and giving you a new activation code

    cheers ...
     
    qhn, Nov 6, 2008
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  3. nizzy1115

    nizzy1115 Notebook Prophet

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    If you use the code on the bottom you will need to call microsoft.
     
    nizzy1115, Nov 6, 2008
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  4. flipfire

    flipfire Moderately Boss

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    Your OEM key is tied down to the hardware in your notebook. If it detects major hardware changes or if the license is used on a totally different system, it will not activate your license.

    This isnt supposed to happen if you only change your HD. Re-activation should only happen if you change the HD and another part.

    You just need to call up Microsoft and explain to them.
     
    flipfire, Nov 6, 2008
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  5. akg7091

    akg7091 Notebook Consultant

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    This is a common problem which I faced with XP home. MS has been blacklisting COA keys en masse. Call them up and they will give you a very long( 40+ digits ) which you need to type.
     
    akg7091, Nov 6, 2008
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  6. DetlevCM

    DetlevCM Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    Yes, call them.
    I installed X professional so often on my old laptop - I need to call them too...

    In your case: Its the same computer, so the OEM license shouldn't be affected, thus call them as everybody else suggested.
     
    DetlevCM, Nov 6, 2008
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  7. grasshopper

    grasshopper Notebook Consultant

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    You can always make an exact copy of your old drive using trueimage.
     
    grasshopper, Nov 6, 2008
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