Over the last few weeks I have come across several computers that until recently were working fine.

But suddenly started to display a message when the computer starts, the first message you may receive is that the copy is of Windows is not genuine do you want to resolve the problem now or later.  If you select Resolve Now you will be redirected to the Microsoft Website and asked to pay for the software approx. 140€.

If you select the option Resolve Later you will be able to enter Windows but the desktop background will have changed to black and there will be a reminder in the lower right corner, advising that the software is not genuine.
In the cases that I have been involved in there are 3 scenarios which explain why this error is being displayed.

1. A legal version of Windows was provided with the computer but the computer has been repaired and Windows has been re-installed and the genuine license key has not been used.
In this case you can usually update your license key and remove the error without paying anything there is a tool on the Windows website which will guide you through the process of updating your license key.
Click on the link below, Choose your Windows version XP or Vista and the follow the instructions. You will need the original license key handy in order to complete the process. If you can’t find it take a look behind your computer or underneath your laptop.
http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/selfhelp/PKUInstructions.aspx
The procedure in the link above will only work if the version installed on your computer matches the licence key version that was provided when you purchased your computer.

2. The second scenario is similar to the previous except in this case the computer was purchased with a legal copy of Windows but has later been repaired or upgraded and a different version of Windows has been installed.

Windows XP is available in several versions “Windows XP Home edition” generally provided on most computers and laptops purchased from computer shops and stores, “Windows XP Professional” sometimes installed by default on more expensive or business computers and laptops. If your computer was purchased with Windows XP Home Edition your license key is not valid for Windows XP Professional and vice versa. What has more than likely happened is the person that has repaired or upgraded your computer has installed a different version of Windows and used an illegal license key.
If this is the case you have 2 options buy another license for the installed version or re-install the original version provided with the computer and use the correct legal key.

3 The third reason is that you have never had a legal copy of Windows installed and due to the updates that have been downloaded and installed on your computer from Microsoft they have now identified your computer as running an illegal version of Windows.
The only way to make the copy legal is to purchase a new license key which can be activated.

There is software available which can overcome Microsoft’s Genuine Software validity checks but you must be cautious in its use, there are many virus and malware infected files floating around which may cause more damage than good if used.

Below you can see an image of the error you may receive if you are using an ellegal Licence Key.




If you would like more information or help please use our Contact Form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

I’ve been asked what can be done with a laptop after the screen has been damaged beyond economical repair.

Many people believe that if the screen has been damaged your only option is to throw it to the rubbish, and then it’s off to the local retail park to spend 400€ upwards for a new one.

Fortunately with all reasonably modern laptops there´s a second and much more cost effective option. It is possible to connect an external monitor to the laptop and see what is displayed on the laptop on the external monitor.

This is also an option for people who have difficulty to see the laptop display due to its size. The cost of a monitor can be anything from 70€ upwards depending on the size and quality of the screen, making it a much more cost effective alternative to replacing the laptop.

On the laptop there is normally a “FN” key on the lower left part of the keyboard which must be held down whilst pressing the Function Key “F4” or “F5” depending on the laptop manufacturer. Pressing this key sequence toggles the display between laptop screen - External Monitor or both displays showing the same information.

If you would like more information or help please use our Contact Form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.