computer help needed

[RichE]

I had to re-install windows on my computer which is no big deal, but the disk I used was a back up recovery disk from another computer I used to have.

It says I have 24 days to activate, anyone know how I can do this or will I need to find a copy of windows with a code? Anyone Hint Hint

I also need to get powerpoint installed as I have a "secret" MCA thing in the works, Lebanon Marty told me to get the Job Done.

[lilscoots]

I can't remember how, but I believe there is a work around.  It will lock you out though if you don't activate it before the time is up.  Open office has a powerpoint like program and it's free.  it's not quite as user friendly, but it does work.

[Steve]

What version of Windows are you wanting Rich? Because I use XP home (I like it better than any other version) and I should have my XP disc here somewhere, and I keep my activation code taped on the inside cover of my tower so I know I for sure have that.

[PowerCerg One]

More recent versions of windows don't absolutely require you to activate them, Vista, 7, 8. They will just be mean to you all the time until you do. I'm not certain about older versions, but you would have to buy a new copy of windows to get a new activation key.

[RichE]

Thanks

I might as well Look for a "newer computer"

[Ron]

Regarding your initial comment on powerpoint, if you'd be making a presentation directly from your computer any "powerpoint"-like program would suffice and I'll second the previous recommendation of Open Office in lieu of Microsoft Office.

[greg y]

Eventually the desktop will black out until you enter a license on windows 7. What version are you running and 64 or 32 bit?

[linuxrulesusa]

Eventually the desktop will black out until you enter a license on windows 7. What version are you running and 64 or 32 bit?

Rich - This has been my experience also.

Your choices for a legal license are either OEM (goes with a single computer and stays with that computer) or Retail (can move from computer to computer as long as removed from the previous one).

Pricing will vary from around $40 up to like $250 depending what license you get.  I would recommend a site like Newegg over a lot of the questionable/spyware sites that claim to sell like $15 Windows licenses.  Often those are scams or steal your credit card info etc.

[Steve]

Rich I did find my XP disc today. If you want to install it and use my code you can get it when you and Chris come over Thursday. Just let me know and I'll have it here.

[linuxrulesusa]

Rich I did find my XP disc today. If you want to install it and use my code you can get it when you and Chris come over Thursday. Just let me know and I'll have it here.

Steve, I'm not trying to bash your offer.  But, Rich, I assume you may be using the computer for business?   If so you really need to buy your own license. I doubt they'd go after you but some businesses have gotten five or six digit fines over improper licensing of software. If you want to use the product it's worth doing it right.  I'm all for OpenOffice and Linux and free options, but if you want a commercial product,  buy it so it's all on the up and up.

Now if you have the XP sticker on the computer...you just need the disc e.g. Dell OEM or HP recovery.  You can usually order those for around $20-30 from the manufacturer.

[Steve]

No prob linuxrulesusa, I think most the probs kind'a leans towards "larger" businesses rather than a guy selling a few tanks and fish things every now and then, but your right though cant argue with that. Just offering to a friend is all.

[PowerCerg One]

Remember, the NSA just might be reading this article! For shame! I am not one of these pitiful anti-americans. Please don't imprison me for reading it Mr. President.

But in all seriousness, sometimes they crucify people to set an example.

[danielratti]

You're Amish Dom. They don't care.

[Regalblue]

You're Amish Dom. They don't care.

hahHAHahahahaha!

[greg y]

I was going to say, if you know any students, especially IT students, they usually get access to a legal copy of every operating system through the microsoft academy