Re: Win 7 license question

Sardine wrote:
> I just bought a new Eee netbook with Win-7 "starter" version
> installed.
>
> It works fine.
>
> I searched the computer with a license key finder and found:
>
> 1. a win-7 license key, as I expected to.
> 2. A second win-7 license key called "default prod. key."
> 3. The win-7 license key sticker on the Eee is different than
> either of the above.
>
> So I seem to be confused, which is normal for MS software.
>
> I believe the first one is the actual working key. What is the
> second one?
> Also, what about the third key printed on the sticker? I wonder if
> it is also valid if used to install?
>
> To top it off, Asus doesn't include an install disk so I don't know
> what that would say on it.

What manner does ASUS provide for returning the machine to its 'as
purchased' state? They are required to give you a method - even if you have
to make the CD/DVDs yourself from the working machine, use a second
partition (recovery) on the machine itself or call and ask for CD/DVDs - you
should figure that part out *now* while it is all new. Now you have some
pull, later, not so much.

The product key might be on the case/packaging for the CD/DVD - but being an
OEM product - most often the *only* location for it is the sticker attached
to the OEM machine. You should write that down and store it with the
instructions/CDs/DVDs that came with/you make/you print for that machine in
a safe lacation - likely the same place you store your periodic off-site
backups.

The product key on your sticker is the correct one. The one that is
probably being used may be a 'volume license type' or another type they just
put on all their systems to make distributing them easier on themselves.

Get the product key being *used* right now using a free tool:
http://pcsupport.about.com/od/produc...pkeyfinder.htm

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html