I have a new laptop with a product-key on the bottom. I enter it and it says it's incorrect what do i do?

Question

I have a new laptop with a product-key on the bottom. I enter it and it says it's incorrect what do i do?

Answer 1

As long as you're using the software that came with the laptop (for example, if you're installing Windows XP/Vista or Office), that key should work correctly.  The main reasons why a key wouldn't work are:

1. Using incorrect version of software (Installing XP PRO when the key is for XP Home, Office SBS when the key is for Office Student/Home)

2. You're typing in an 8 when it should be a B or something like that.

If it was used elsewhere, then the error message would be something different than "...incorrect key..."

Since you have the sticker key, you can contact Microsoft (I don't know about other vendors) and they will void that key and reissue you another one.

Answer 2

did you have your laptop worked on my Geek Squad/ Best Buy

they would reinstall your OS but use pirated Numbers to activate

Answer 3

Make sure the product key is for the correct operating system.  

Answer 4

Well the best thing to do is call the company or just go back to the store you brought it from and tell them the problem.

Try to do it a couple of more times.

Look at the product -key closely maybe your missing a number ;)

Answer 5

Are you entering it into software? If you are, it's the wrong key. You need to input the one on the box the software came in, or the one from the e-mail they sent when (if) you registered.

Are you entering it into the Windows Setup? If you are, take it to the place you got the laptop from and tell them what is wrong. If possible, make sure the laptop if fully charged and show them what happens.

Also, check that the version on the product key (also on the label) matches the version you are installing.

Answer 6

The product key is used when you reinstall windows on the machine.