Way OT: Trying to restore computer to factory settings

[Ronnie73]

Even if you are able to reinstall Vista, it will still ask you for a Windows key. The restore option from the disk I believe is only on the full versions and not the oem disks that come from dell. If you don't find an answer and feel comfortable doing a clean install of Vista, which would include reformating the hard drive, doing the install, running windows updates for a few hours, loading your audio and wireless drivers back in and also any other programs you originally had, let me know. I can send you a DVD disc that will get you back up and running again.

Ron

[mcap100176]

Try Belarc Advisor to look for the key:

http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html#tips

It will be about halfway down the page.

[kllrbee]

Thanks guys,
I downloaded belarc and it gives me the same key that the other website did.
I enter it exactly as written and it does not accept it. Error message continues to pop up.

So...everything is there, its just not allowing me to use the product key that I have. Btw, I was ffinally able to access the full system recovery page, but I cannot restore to factory settings, cuz I already did it once before. I was unaware it was a one time shot. I tried reinstalling with OEM disc, but that leads me right back to where I started....product activation key.

So, Ive decided that I am going to do 1 of 3 things...
1) buy a new and updated version of windows.
2) buy a new laptop (Its been over 3 years, could be time for an upgrade)
3) talk my union into providing me with a new laptop (I do about 2 hours a month of union work in which I need a computer. Im the treasurer of our local, so its all number crunching stuff)

Thanks for the help guys, I appreciate it.

[FrankWakefield]

Before you go on a buying spree... go check out OpenOffice.org .