Windows 7: Need help activating

the thing · 19 Jul 2011

Hello, I am having trouble activating windows 7 ultimate 32 bit. I bought the computer secondhand and it came with windows 7 already installed. I got a virus and had to format the computer and start a fresh. When it was taking me through the installation it asked for the key so I tried to type in the one that was used before but it wouldn't let me. So I just skipped that step and carried on using windows. Now its asking me to activate windows and when I try to input the code that was used when I first bought the computer it says "Unacceptable Character" when I type the first number.

Why is it doing this and how can I sort it out? Thanks in advanced.

theog · 19 Jul 2011

Type in the code from the COA, on the side of the PC.

the thing · 19 Jul 2011

There isn't a code on the side of the pc because it was originally windows xp and only has the windows xp code on the side. The previous owner obviously updated the computer from windows xp to windows 7

speedgamer01 · 19 Jul 2011

That means no good, you shouldn't have bought it..
I don't know if it is legal or not, but you could phone him for the key/install disk. That you have windows installed that doesn't mean that it is yours.
Else, you will have to buy a new one.

the thing · 19 Jul 2011

Isn't there a way to use the key that was used when I bought the computer?

speedgamer01 · 19 Jul 2011

No, not really.

You will have to buy a new 1.

the thing · 19 Jul 2011

Damn. Ah well thanks for the help.

Wishmaster · 19 Jul 2011

If you're lucky, it has a legit key and the seller simply forgot to give it you.
It could be a honest mistake.

Contact them before you do anything.

Windows 7: Need help activating

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