not genuine vista?

I recently changed my hard drive and reinstalled my vista (which came installed with computer). About 3 weeks later I now have a black screen with awindow that asks me to type another product key or use reduced function to buy new product.

So I call microsoft and they said the key has been blocked because it has been activated 2 many times and I need to contact gateway. Gateway in return said that there is nothing they can do. From what I was told is that it is a generic key from gateway which would explain why it has been used so many times.

Why should I be forced to buy a new OE when none of this is my fault? Also after all the updates I went thru in the last 3 weeks did it finally decide my key was bad?

This is frustrating no one wants to take blame, typical big buisness

I am really sorry that this is happening, but this is what I would do.

I would call the number that you used. Explain the situation in a clam, polite manner. If you do not get results ask to speak to the next highest level. If that does not work, call gateway again, take names.

In a certified letter to top Managment at MS, give the facts: Mr Jones at Gateway said blah, blah , blah.

I have had many encounters with big business, through my job.

Top manag will take your letter, give it to a subordinate, and say "Take care of this" The subordinate does not want his boss to get another letter, and he will take care of you.

Good Luck

I actually explained the situation in a calm manner with microsoft and recived two varied answers. As to gateway you can only contact them by internet unless you pay. Gateway shruged me off by saying they are not responsible since I'm out of warranty. I didn't know support for windows had a warranty.

I did recieve a fax number to put my info on and explain the situation which I will do tonight. Im confused why microsoft would block a product when they sold the liscence to gateway. I know this has definitly happened before and both companies should be more repaired to deal with it.

Hopefully your right and thanks for the response

I am truly sure that if you write the letter in the proper manner, you will get results. Dont try to get fancy, or business like, just be professional.

I do not know you and do not know anyone at MS. I read your post and I believe you, and feel that you are corrrect in your expectations. Explain it the same way in your letter (certified signature required).

Lets give MS a chance, I think that you may be surprised.