Error when loading windows in VMware or Paralells

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Hi,

New to this so apologies if I am asking something thats been asked before (I have searched and googled before posting).

Trying to install windoze XP using either paralells or VM ware - not bothered which.

Install goes okay until I get to the part where it checks the windows key.

It says it is invalid.

The windows I am using is an original XP SP1 install. The licence key (or keys as I have tried two) I am using are genuine keys as the discs installed on Dells (since gone to the PC graveyard in the sky).

I am at a loss as to know what to try. I did think it might need SP2 but surely that would kick in at the start of the install and not half way through.

Thanks in advance
 
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Perhaps it might be an OEM license key? That's all I can think of. Windows can differentiate different key types, like Corporate and Comsumer.
 
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Nope

Unfortunately not - original purchases of windows (we have about 6 copies of XP all in original boxes due to having a friend who works for microsoft).

That is why I'm confused.
 
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Well, the only possibilities are that you are typing the key incorrectly or it's not a valid key for that edition of Windows. Upgrades, OEMs and full versions all use different types of key.
 
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You may have to contact microsoft
 
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Hi,

New to this so apologies if I am asking something thats been asked before (I have searched and googled before posting).

Trying to install windoze XP using either paralells or VM ware - not bothered which.

Install goes okay until I get to the part where it checks the windows key.

It says it is invalid.

The windows I am using is an original XP SP1 install. The licence key (or keys as I have tried two) I am using are genuine keys as the discs installed on Dells (since gone to the PC graveyard in the sky).

I am at a loss as to know what to try. I did think it might need SP2 but surely that would kick in at the start of the install and not half way through.

Thanks in advance

I had the same issue.

I registered my copy of Windows via phone. The confirmation id the automated machine gave me, would not work. I had to actually speak with someone from Microsoft. She helped me out and mine works fine now.
 

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