Vista validation ?

Hi, I have recently installed Vista on my comps(2). I installed the first comp sans the Validation number and ran it for two days to confirm all was OK. I then validated it and
decided to install to the second comp. I validated this setup ( different number )and later found that I was getting probs. ( eventually tracked it down to the battery in the wireless mouse being low on power). I reinstalled Vista perfectly then validated , followed by all the updates. ( I now have Windows.old using up disk space and am somewhat doubtful about removing it ).
I have Googled the following: How do I check my Vista validation? All I get is how to cheat the WGA with some crack!
So, can some kind person tell me how to check on the comp where I look for the Validation number.

All help greatly appreciated.

I'm not sure if this applies to a Vista disc, but in XP, you can search for a file called "unattend.exe," which contains the actual product key. As long as you've got Vista installed, you can use a safe utility from magicaljellybean.com called KeyFinder. It's free and it'll identify your product key. Should your Vista disc have been used before (or, in this instance, on other computer(s,) then you can call-in to the activation line. It's the phone number given if you choose to activate offline. You should be presented with a series of 8 or so boxes that require a string of numbers. Whether you talk to a representative (obviously the less favorable route,) or deal with the automated system, the ABSOLUTELY MOST IMPORTANT THING TO NOTATE is that you're installing Vista "ON ONLY ONE COMPUTER." Should they see that it's still active on a 2nd PC, you can tell them that it's an error. Please don't communicate the idea that someone else hijacked your Vista disc. They'll locate the Globally Unique Identifier of it (GUID) and red-flag it. Simply stress that you've attempted a couple reformats on the same PC, but with many errors. It's Vista; they'll buy it. After that, you should be provided with either a proper product key and/or the number sequence required to register offline. From there, you can actually go through the validation process which makes you eligible for WGA (Windows Genuine Advantage) updates/software. I hope this helps; I speak from much chagrin & experience w/ regard to this issue. FYI, here's the link to validate. Note: Make sure everything is activated FIRST. Then, validate. The validation link provided may actually prompt it upfront; in some cases, the WGA ActiveX control for Internet Explorer is offered. Link: http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/do...=0&sGuid=7c80e435-1aa8-48bf-9006-91825709d377

GOOD LUCK!

Erik
v877051

Also, please note that if you're having problems with Windows/MicrosoftUpdate, it's a good (and safe) idea to clear your Update Cache. This does NOT delete hotfixes. It simply saves disk space and allows Windows to do a fresh scan for missing or overlooked updates. Vista is a great OS, but it's imperfect. Here are the steps:

1.) Go to Start / Accessories / Command Prompt (CMD)
2.) Right-click on the icon for CMD and choose RUN AS ADMINISTRATOR.
3.) Now, we'll shut down the 3 locking handle-type services tied-into WindowsUpdate so you can manipulate the folder. However, you'll definitely want to be ready. Open Windows Explorer and navigate to: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution. DO NOT OPEN THE FOLDER. Just keep this handy.
4.) In your "elevated" Command Prompt (run as administrator,) type each of the following verbatim with no quotes:

a.) net stop wuauserv (wait for response)
b.) net stop crytpsvc
c.) net stop bits

5.) IMMEDIATELY navigate back to your SoftwareDistribution folder. Highlight each and every single folder in it. Delete them all. Go back to your CMD prompt.

6.) In CMD, type:

net start wuauserv
net start cryptsvc
net start bits]

7.) Lastly, check for new updates. Since the system will THINK it hasn't been updated, it will be one longgggg cycle. Opt-in for Microsoft Update if you have Office2003/2007. In any sense, the one super-lengthy check is a 1-time thing. That's the best way to recover from the Vista-famous 80070002 error & also missing updates.

I hope this helps!

Erik
v877051

Thanks for that. Point to make. I have two Vista setup disks and two validation numbers. As opposed to one disk/number on two comps.
The only Windows I have ever had with a validation number was on a laptop with Xp Home on it and whenever I reinstalled on it I never once got asked for a number as it was already imbedded in the comp . I am assuming the same is happening on this 2nd comp. And I just want to see the number out of curiosity, I guess!
Prior to this I always used a University W2K disk which never asks for a V/number.

As I am writing this the other comp is updating .

Awesome; thanks for the clarification.

Yes, typically with "recovery discs," which are typically exclusive to:

1.) Bundled-software PC's (from retail stores,) or more commonly,
2.) Laptops

...you won't necessarily have to enter a product key.

However, the site I mentioned earlier is of great value as so that you can record your product key for the sake of either filing purposes or even something to the effect of WGA, or, Windows Genuine Advantage software. WGA doesn't typically need it, but if you don't actually TYPE in a product at the time of format, that creates the possibility it may be needed later, or even as soon as activation needs to take place. I've personally seen these stranger occurences with Vista.

For now, go to: Magical Jelly Bean Software and download "Keyfinder 2.0.1." It'll very easily locate and display (in a small window) your true product key.

Good luck.

Regards,

Erik
v877051

Hi Eric, Thanks again. I have managed to find it in the System folder. Many thanks.