not activated but still works ok

Hi a friend gave me her computer to clean up and upgrade from windows home
SP1 to SP2 and install all the latest security downloads etc., as I have
broadband. I installed SP2 OK then connected to the Microsoft update site.
And got the message that windows was not activated and it would not let me
download any updates. I got the CD key from her and tried to activate over
the net but got the message invalid CD Key. Tried the phone method and got a
bloke from India who was either deaf or daft as I had to repeat each number
many times. I was, according to my phone, on the phone for 25mins and 36
secs to be told to contact the computer manufacturer. I got another CD Key
and again it would not activate. Bloke in shop (local computer shop) says
the copy of Windows XP Home is legit as well as the CD Key, going back
tomorrow to have a moan. So how come her computer has been running Windows
XP home for the past 18 months without being activated and allowing SP2 to
be installed? I know a couple of people who had the pirate version of XP Pro
and they have been unable to upgrade to SP2 so they don't bother. Does she
have a dodgy version of XP Home or is there a version that does not need
activated but will allow SP2 to be installed? Any thoughts on her/my
problem.

Thanks Ron

 

Try repairing the registry entries for the .DLL files used by
activation:

Use Start- Run and enter the following text in the dialog box:
regsvr32.exe regwizc.dll

Then do it again with the following text:
regsvr32.exe licdll.dll

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca

In memory of a dear friend Alex Nichol MVP
http://aumha.org/alex.htm

 

MS just implemented this little gem earlier this month.
Open Internet Explorer.
Click <Tools> <Manage Add-Ons>
Choose "Add-ons that have been used..." from the drop down.
Scroll down and find "Windows Genuine Advantage", and select it.
Click the "Disable" radio button in the lower section of the window.
Save and Close.
Go back to Windows Updates and get all you want.
Ignore any messages regarding the page asking for an Active X control.

 

There is the reason for this maybe. it came with the pc as an install disc
hence already activated.