Microsoft Product Key Already In Use

This is the step by step process that will address authentication issues that some clients have reported when they install a used copy of Vista or sometimes, even complete a re-install of Vista on the same machine. These steps will help prepare you for what to expect and to over come any issues experienced.

Some clients have reported that they just re-installed Windows Vista, carefully installed all their third party software, and next, start the process of activating their copy of Windows Vista.

Clients then go through the online/internet activation process only to find that at the end of the process, a message appears informing them that “Your product key is already in use” or “Microsoft cannot authenticate your product key” and they are directed to must activating their copy of Vista via telephone.

When this happens, the Microsoft Activation process is flagging the Vista product key number because, according to Microsoft records, it already exists, is already installed on the PC they are currently using or on another PC, and the key has already been activated once. This is an anti piracy restriction to prevent illegal copying and the installation of the same copy of Vista on more than one PC/machine. Some folks report that they received a similar warning after upgrading certain hardware in the same PC.

Please note that these messages are only temporary and by following the instructions below, and it is likely that activation will prove successful.

1. In Vista, click the Start Button

2. In the Search box type: “slui.exe 4” (without the quotes) and then press Enter

3. In the “find available phone number for activation” window, select the nearest location to where you live from the location box. You can click on the arrow to the right of the location box to expand you choice of locations.

4. Once you have selected your Location, Click Next

5. If the User Account Control box appears, Click Continue or, if you are not the administrator, type in the relevant administrative user name and password for permission to continue.

6. The Activate Windows Now window will appear showing the telephone number you need to dial along with a set of installation ID numbers

7. Next, dial the activation number displayed on the screen. The telephone number is toll free unless stated otherwise.

8. Please note that initially, the Activation line is automated, so you will be asked to input the numbers displayed on your screen by speaking clearly into the phone or if you prefer, by using your telephone keypad.

9. Once the numbers have been input, the automated service will issue you another set of number which you will have to type into the dialogue box displayed on your computer screen

10. Follow the instructions issued by the Automated service in order to Activate your copy

11. If, after going through this process, the Activation service informs you that the product cannot be activated,  do not hang up. Stay on the line and your call will be transferred to a real person, an Activation Agent, who will assist you in Activating your copy of Windows Vista

12. Working through  this process can be time consuming, but, 9.99 times out of ten, Activation is automatic and can be accomplished easily over the internet. This is why the service is automated.

If we can provide additional help, please contact is on the “Contact Us” page.

 

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Aaacomputer.com