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    Windows Activation Nightmare

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by Lambofreak, Dec 16, 2009.

  1. Lambofreak

    Lambofreak I like, love laptops

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    Hi all. Again, I'm after some help in a hurry :mad:

    A month ago I reformatted my laptop (MSI), with Vista Home Premium 64. I've done this a few times, and never had a problem. Usually I choose to activate windows later in the install, and then click change the product key in System Properties. Usually works fine.

    But, the time that I wait till theres one day left, it doesn't recognize my key. I have tried 1000 times, so I am sure its the right key. It's the one on the bottom of my laptop I've used every other time.

    I know contacting Microsoft will be a waste of time, and MSI will just tell me to go to Microsoft.

    The error code I get from my key is 0xC004C003.

    Any help would be great!

    Cheers
     
    Lambofreak, Dec 16, 2009
    #1
  2. flipfire

    flipfire Moderately Boss

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    You will need to call Microsoft for this instance or try formatting again. The microsoft activation line is easy going and should only take 5mins.

    You should save a copy of your activation using ABR (activation backup and restore)
     
    flipfire, Dec 16, 2009
    #2
  3. Lambofreak

    Lambofreak I like, love laptops

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    So you don't think contacting Microsoft will be a waste of time? I spose its worth a shot, 5 mins. Will do, cheers buddy.

    If that doesn't work, a reformat wouldn't hurt. I might get another 30 days out of it.
     
    Lambofreak, Dec 16, 2009
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  4. zfactor

    zfactor Mastershake

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    that error means the code is already in use or ms sees it was.
     
    zfactor, Dec 16, 2009
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  5. Rorschach

    Rorschach Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

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    Just call ms if the automated system doesn't work, a rep will get it done.
     
    Rorschach, Dec 16, 2009
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  6. Lambofreak

    Lambofreak I like, love laptops

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    Yeah thanks all. Waiting for a person seemed to do the trick. My key just mustn't have been deactivated last time i reformatted.

    Cheers to all who posted above!
     
    Lambofreak, Dec 17, 2009
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  7. DetlevCM

    DetlevCM Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    Well, a key can't "deactivate" when you format...

    I'm wondering, are you using a 32Bit key on a 64Bit clean install? (you can do this)
    I'm asking because recovery CDs don't tend to need activation...
     
    DetlevCM, Dec 17, 2009
    #7