Windows 25# key does not match PC

[forjonny]

I have a Dell that I bought new with the CD. When I ran Belarc the number that Belarc mentioned that was my OS key did not match the number that is on my COA on the bottom of the PC. Does that make sense? I was lucky to get a CD from Dell at the time. Why are they different?

[Midknyte]

Dells have a OEM XP disc that is bios-coded. It doesn't ask for the code when you do the install. If you didn't use the Dell XP disc, then you would be prompted for a code.

Think about it. Dell makes THOUSANDS of computers. Do you think they would manually enter each code? Dell buys a volume license, but gives you a single code.

[Ankerson]

Dell also Images the drives. They have different Images for each Model and Software Packages.

[forjonny]

Do they just put that coa on the bottom on these computers just for show? Do these numbers have any significance? What about when you do an update for something like IE7 when it validates, what code gets sent to Microsoft the volumn bios code or the one on the bottom?

If I called Microsoft and ask them to let me use this CD to install on my desktop for a fee, will I have to use the code from the bottom of this pc? Or will they just take my money and give me a new key?

[Steve R Jones]

Microsoft can't/won't help you with OEM software...Dell will.

The key code on the bottom of your pc is Your code. The code is put there as proof you have a vaild/certified copy of Windows.

[Midknyte]

the code is just part of the dell license pool. when you do a windows update, they know that it is a dell code.

[forjonny]

the code is just part of the dell license pool. when you do a windows update, they know that it is a dell code.

You mean the one that Belarc displays right?

They must know by the numbers and letters that it is a Dell Version, huh?


The COA sticker code will never be used then for this PC because a new install will never ask for it, right?

[forjonny]

By the way this is what I found in Computer Management:

47MB Fat - Eisa Configuration
34GB NTFS - System(Healthy)
2.75GB Fat 32 - Unknown Partition

[Midknyte]

Microsoft knows that it's a Dell code and that's it. Don't make a big deal about it. That's all I'm going to say.

The extra partitions are set up by dell for diagnostics and restore. you could reformat the whole drive if you wanted.

[forjonny]

That's how I learn by asking questions.