invalid procut key - but not!

[creeker69]

Can anyone help? I am using a Dell Optiplex 260 (have had it since day one new) and windows 2000 pro.

The day I got it, I ran Magical Jelly Bean and copied down the product key. I have upgraded all security patches for years from Microsoft with no problems but now I come up with an Invalic Product Key message. Belarc gives the wrong number also.

The only thing unusual on this machine is that I used a PC relocator software from my old Windows 98 PC.

I have the valid product key on the side of the Dell and it does not match Belarc's number! That is most likely the reeason for the invalid key message. I legitimately own the pc and the software.

I contacted Microsoft. Apparently this kind of thing happens on XP enough that they have a program to install the correct procuct key!!!! But not for 2000. Microsofts proposal was to contact Dell and go thru the Dell Hell support. I really hope not to do that but will if no one has an idea on how to fix this.

thanks in advance.

ron

 

[bcastner]

When OEMs build the machines they use a master OS image and registration key. They then supply a CD, which if used would take the key from the side of the case. Not the master OS image key.

 

[bcastner]

https://www.petri.co.il/install_windows_2000_without_supplying_the_cd_key.htm

 

[creeker69]

Thank you for the reply. The second response containing the link is not what I am looking for. I WANT to put the legitimate Product Code for my Win2000 Pro into the system. I could just wring Dell's neck for the hassle! They did this to me (sort of) once before too. I bought a PC with Win2000 installed but the CD was XP PRO becasue I bouhgt just at the end of the allowed time for them to sell WIN2000. But, that is not the case here. This PC SHOULD contain the same product code that is on the outside of the PC but it does not.

Again, I have no clue how it cannot validate. But, in order to download anything from Microsoft it must go through the validation process (which I have no arguement about, despite Bill Gates they are entitled to make sure I did not steal their software).

I have googled and found dozens of key "readers" but none that can change the product code on win2000 (for WIN XP there are many!).

Thanks again,
Ron

 

[bcastner]

This PC SHOULD contain the same product code that is on the outside of the PC but it does not.

Only if you have reinstalled and used the case COA key. Otherwise it uses the key for the master image.

 

[wolluf]

You could try a repair reinstall - supplying the correct key during this process:-

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;292175&Product=win2000

you'll need to reapply SP4 and all windows updates since (unless you create a slipstreamed install CD with them included - eg, see nlite)