Can somebody help please?

I've had Philips x58 laptop for about a year now, and then I switched my laptop on about 15mins ago and this box came on saying "this copy of Windows is not genuine"

Vista was already preloaded on the laptop when I bought it.

Underneath there are 2 boxes - enter your computer with reduced functionality and enter a different product key.

Anyway I tried to key in the product key (taken from the Microsoft certificate) on the underside of the laptop - still no luck it now says this product key is invalid???

I've tried the microsoft helpline and the recorded message is asking for a 6 digit code from the set up wizard - how do I get there?

If any one can help, I'll be very grateful

Thanks

Can somebody help please?

I've had Philips x58 laptop for about a year now, and then I switched my laptop on about 15mins ago and this box came on saying "this copy of Windows is not genuine"

Vista was already preloaded on the laptop when I bought it.

Underneath there are 2 boxes - enter your computer with reduced functionality and enter a different product key.

Anyway I tried to key in the product key (taken from the Microsoft certificate) on the underside of the laptop - still no luck it now says this product key is invalid???

I've tried the microsoft helpline and the recorded message is asking for a 6 digit code from the set up wizard - how do I get there?

If any one can help, I'll be very grateful

Thanks

could it be what was happening at PC World sales staff when vista was 1st released , they were selling people ( hackers and that) the key codes.

Where did you buy it from?

If you have upgraded anything in the PC such as the graphics card etc. this can fool Vista into thinking you have installed your OS on another pc and will throw up errors.

could it be what was happening at PC World sales staff when vista was 1st released , they were selling people ( hackers and that) the key codes.

I don't think "hackers" need key codes. There has been numerous activation, timer and oem bios cracks available since it was released.

I don't think "hackers" need key codes. There has been numerous activation, timer and oem bios cracks available since it was released.

This happen at 1st Sales staff were selling the codes found on base stickers to dodgy people.also having pirate software or not some you still need a keycode for, that activation crack are only to stop MS contacting you telling you the code is invalid .

BTW your not alone,, http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=109556 Other members who have bought PC World PC's have had the same thing

*sigh*

Where did the OP say he'd bought the PC from PC World?! I bloody love it when you people blindly jump on the "We hate PC World" bandwagon! It just shows you up for being well, a bit dim really IMO.

I know of at least one virus that can mimic the windows activation process.

It's not asking for bank details or anything is it?

Try Googleing: Windows Activation Virus and you'll see what i mean.
I'd back up your files and remaster - it's the only way to be sure :)

And yeah, although Phillips PCs are available at PCWorld, let's wait for confirmation before we wade in eh :D

*sigh*

Where did the OP say he'd bought the PC from PC World?! I bloody love it when you people blindly jump on the "We hate PC World" bandwagon! It just shows you up for being well, a bit dim really IMO.

In *your* opinion, Rich. A lot of us aren't "blindly" jumping on the bandwagon, so stop attempting a mini flame war...

PC world are a bit pants for those who aren't Joe Public (as opposed to JoeP :hihi:), but for the majority of people who don't mind paying high street prices and aren't in the know, they're fine.

The average computer user can't troubleshoot and fix a lot of problems that crop up, but places like PC world offer them a service (at a premium) that will sort out their issues.

For those of us who build systems and use PCs in a very high end capacity, they're overpriced, underknowledged abd a bit jumped up.

But, back to the topic. Where was it originally purchased? If it's somewhere like PC World (or another "reputable" high street retailer) you should be able to take it back to be sorted free of charge so long as it's within warranty - or even if it's slightly out if it's an issue that relates to the original installation.

Can't remember the phone number but the telephone activation line does eventually put you through to someone who explains how to reset the activation numbers which regenerates a new code.

Can't recollect all the details as it's about 18 months since I bought a PC with Vista Home Edition on, it crashed big style within 3 months, went back for repair under warrenty and came back all unactivated from a default image I guess?


.

Windows Vista gets confused, just ring the activation number and they will supply you with a new product key.

I'll try calling microsoft tommorow, BTW it WAS bought from PC world

I'll try calling microsoft tommorow, BTW it WAS bought from PC world

I must be a mind reader :hihi:

Rich *sigh*

Where did the OP say he'd bought the PC from PC World?! I bloody love it when you people blindly jump on the "We hate PC World" bandwagon! It just shows you up for being well, a bit dim really IMO.

I'll try calling microsoft tommorow, BTW it WAS bought from PC world


I'd go down the road with Microsoft and stay well clear of the shenanigans at PC world, it could in the long run cost you more than the PC is worth.

If this was me that had this issue, i'd drop XP on the machine.

Sorted it:)

I called Microsoft and with the help of the technical team over in India, within half an hour the laptop was working again perfect!

If anyone else has a problem call Microsoft on:

0870 601 0100

They were excellent!