Windows Not Genuine

Barman58 said:

Phase said:

I tried patching the problem with a few help from Google nothing.

The copy of Windows 7 was an OEM version from Dell when I bought my previous comp for my mom they gave her the disk free in Jan, I used it on my comp and did a fresh install and I thought everything was fine..

The above statements would actually suggest to me that the WAT software is working correctly. The use of a Dell supplied OEM install on any system, other than the one it was supplied for, is prohibited under the licence terms so therefore would be classed as non genuine.

I beg to differ on that statement, I've been using Dell PCs since I got my first computer 10+ years ago. As my understand, Dell products works on Dell PCs, I've used many previous Windows Disk that was supplied to me from Dell on another Dell PC and everything worked flawlessly. The only thing is, Dell software doesn't work on another computer like an HP for example...I've verified with Dell and never had a problem with their software booting up on multiple computers once its a Dell, although they don't suggest it.

Did you use the Product Key on the Certificate of Authenticity stickered to your machine to activate install done with your Mom's computer's Dell OEM disk?

If not, and you used a Product key intended to upgrade your Mom's Dell computer instead, then you may have been caught using an OEM upgrade key on a machine for which it was not intended.

Several who have reported here that they were able to use Win7 Upgrade kits on other computers are on thin ice since MS required these Upgrade keys to be somehow locked to intended machine by maker.

If you used your own machine's key, then there should be no problem as you just used an OEM installer, as long as you used your same version.

When I installed I was prompt to enter the Product Key on the side of the computer.
I'll try calling Dell tonight.

No help from Dell...their saying it's a Microsoft Activation issue. Microsoft can't provide support because I can't see the "Activate By Phone" section on screen to provide the Licensing, they won't accept just the product key...hmm...I tried doing a System Restore to Feb 22nd, thinking that would work but didn't. So I guess I'm out of options now...

I'm guessing I'd have to try re-installing it.

Reapply key using Change Product Key link at Computer>Properties (scroll to bottom of page).

This will either reactivate or fail activation providing the number to call for activation.

suggest you visit the store where you purchased the computer. With great probability you do not have a "genuine" version of Win7 on the computer.