I restarted my computer today and it started saying that it need a validation key or something like that. The copy of Vista I used came with my other desktop, and it installed fine and went great up till now. It gave me three options:

1. Access your computer with reduced fuctionality

2. Type a different product key

3. Contact Microsoft to help resolve this problem.

I've tried reentering the product key that came with it and it wont work...what should I do?

Hi there

What Has happened here is that your 15day activation period has run out. This would not have been applicable on the machine it was origionaly installed on but when you put it on another computer it needs activating. Technically your not allowed to put this install on another machine as well as the origional.

The only way to get the activation code is to call Microsoft Product Ativation help line on 0800 018 8354(UK) 800 018 8354(USA) But they will not give it to you if its not for the correct machine, they will probably want you to purchase another product key.

I cant provide you with information on making the install work on your desktop as that would be breaching the Copyright laws and the Rules of this forum.

Sorry I cant be of more help

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The thing is is that I don't have Vista installed on the other machine, so I thought it was legal to put it on mine...oh, and I can't get through on that number...are you sure its right?

Thats the only number ive got. You could try looking around on their website to find it.

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MS wants you to buy another version of VISTA for each computer.. read their EULA, If I remember right you can move it to a new computer, provided the old is destroyed or something. But then it's hard to say, as they kept changing their EULA, and changed it for each version of the OS they released.. even AFTER it was released.

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