Windows 7: Can't use my product key-urgent!

I needed to install a new hard drive in a computer, and I used my Windows 7 cd to install the OS, however, when I got to the Product key, I used the correct one but it won't accept it. I found that that can happen if you install from an upgrade disk, which I did (I thought it was the full program), and it said that I should upgrade from XP or Vista. I have my old XP disk, but when I reboot from the CD I get the Blue Screen of Death. If I restart normally, Win 7 is still there, but what will happen if the product key doesn't work? Will I only be able to use it temporarily? What can I do???

I think best is if you get in touch with Microsoft here: Activation and registration of a Microsoft product

Hello Labecs,

You might see if using OPTION THREE in the tutorial below may help with this. If not, then you'll need to format the HDD to start over using OPTION FOUR in the tutorial below.

Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version

Hope this helps,
Shawn

The disks are the same, upgrade or full. It is the key which determines whether it will activate.

It will reject the Upgrade version key on a new or cleaned HD since it sees no OS on the HD. Leave the key blank, then after install do the quick registry workaround given in Brink's tutorial above.

For HP Pavillion

You can Order HP Recovery Disks from here:
Compaq Mini CQ10-500 PC series*-* HP Notebook PCs - Order Recovery Discs for Windows 7, Vista, or XP - c00810334 - HP Business Support Center



Did you make the OEM manufacturer's Recovery Disks?

If you don't fancy editing the registry, just install Windows without entering a product key, and then install again.

The second install will see the first one as the qualifier for the upgrade and will accept your product key the second time round.

Thank you all!! The tutorial worked great

You're very welcome and thanks for the update.

You're most welcome Labecs. I'm glad that we could help.