Boot Camp in Parallels...

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I just loaded up Parallels 3.0 in response to a review I saw in Macworld. What sparked my interest was a blurb about how you don't have to have a second installation of Windows because Parallels can use the Boot Camp install to run as a VM. Well, here's the dilemma. The installation ID for the Parallels version of Windows is different from the one that I have activated through Boot Camp. Consequently, if I start Windows in Parallels, I keep getting a notice that I need to activate Windows within 3 days. This is the same for my anti-virus software that I have running with Windows. Is there any way around this or do I need to purchase another activation key for the Parallels version of Windows? The unlock key that I have can't be used anymore (too many Windows installs) so Microsoft says I need to buy a new activation key. All the programs and files are the same between the installs, but the computer is seeing them as two different installation IDs.

Please tell me there's a way I can avoid giving Microsoft anymore of my money!!
 

bobtomay

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If you're talking about XP, this should not be an issue as it will be reporting the exact same hardware as the Boot Camp install.
 
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If you're talking about XP, this should not be an issue as it will be reporting the exact same hardware as the Boot Camp install.

No it won't. Parallels hardware profile is different, and it identifies it's own custom BIOS and PC type which is completely different from how the Mac identifies itself. The only way around it is to get another copy of Windows, or only ever run the partition in BootCamp or Parallels but not both. I believe you might get Microsoft to allow it if you phone them, because you are running the same license on the same physical machine, but they aren't obliged to.
 

bobtomay

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No it won't. Parallels hardware profile is different, and it identifies it's own custom BIOS and PC type which is completely different from how the Mac identifies itself. The only way around it is to get another copy of Windows, or only ever run the partition in BootCamp or Parallels but not both. I believe you might get Microsoft to allow it if you phone them, because you are running the same license on the same physical machine, but they aren't obliged to.


thanks
 
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Im experiencing the same thing, boy ms does everything they can to make it tuff on ya eh ?
 
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Dude just get a keygen and crack it.

What is the obsession with legit software?
 
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Dude just get a keygen and crack it.

What is the obsession with legit software?

It's against the law. And as such, isn't open for discussion on this forum. Read the rules.
 

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