This is getting on my nerves. I have windows XP, and it was working just fine until a couple days ago where it started saying "You must activate windows within 6 days, would you like to activate windows now?" I clicked yes first, because I didnt know what it would ask me to do, but then I realized I needed a CD key, which I do not have with me. I cancelled and it logged me in anyway, so I was happy. Eventually it said "You must activate windows to log on" and so I restarted my compuetr. After I did that the problem went away and it let me log in and everything. But then it started the 6 day thing again! This time though, restarting the computer isnt helping. I cannot log in to Windows XP! What is causing this and how do you think I can fix it, if there is any way?

Sounds like you have an illegal copy of Windows. The CD key it is asking for is the one entered when the OS was installed. If it was a legal key, it wouldn't be asking you for another one now, it would just go on and activate. Its asking you for a CD key because the one you have stored in the registry is probably one of the many illegal ones knocking around. Stuart

Hi Bradley, Just after recieving my computer back ( Had been upgraded ), i had this window that kept asking me to Activate windows. If u check on the back of ur computer tower u should have a small sticker or something simular with the Product Key on it? Are you sure its asking for the CD KEY? Anyway, if its the product key its after, check on ur tower. (25 Digits)

Stuart: Yeah, it must be an illegal copy because it would just go ahead and do it... its unfortunate though because my step dad, who upgraded to XP, is a cop and should know better! Ill see what i can do though. Nect: Ill try that, but im sure it is asking for the CD key.

Bradley There's no such thing as a CD Key.... There's a difference between the Product KEY which is the 25 Digtit Number on the CD Box or the Tower - and - the Product ID which is the Number on My Computer - Properties - General Tab Look carefully to see which Number it is asking for - I can't remember but I think it may be the Product ID Lesley

Just curious about this situation. Would that make Windows shut down and not boot up at all. Reason I ask is that I had to do a repair of my brother's computer and I had to use my own disk to repair it. That was about two weeks ago. Now my system will not even boot up in normal mode. I can only boot to my secondary hard drive and I have to boot to Safe Mode. Could the fact that I still have to activate his be the reason mine will not boot? Thanks