windows corrupt

[nanscamp]

my computer refused to start. It is 14 months old so I took it back to where I bought it. I was told that windows was corrupt and that I did not have a licence. When I looked at my reciept windows was not mentioned as being installed. (this was the first time I had bought a computer). The shop now says I have to buy a licence so that it can be repaired. What do you recommend I do?

[maviscoull]

i would argue til i was blue in the face with the shop personally !! you could email microsoft tech help and explain what your problem is. not sure what else you can do.

[mattie]

If a shop sells an brand new computer with a preinstalled operating system, they are required to provide at least a licence key, which should be a label attached to the case, and a cd so that you have the means to reinstall if necessary, (though you may not always get the cd,even though you should)

I would argue that they should provide a licence for you, or you are prepared to contact microsoft, as microsoft take a dim view of companies installing unlicenced software on PCs and then selling them.

[maviscoull]

i thought about the licensce key Mattie when i replyed before....is that the sets of numbers you key in when you use pc for first time ? i had to enter these to get windows loaded.

[nanscamp]

The shop says they installed windows free of charge (afterwards I found out that the computer cost a bit more than some friends had paid elsewhere) and it is now out of guarantee. I could get a new computer for not much more than they are asking but all my stuff is on it. I suppose I should have taken someone who knows about these things but I thought I could trust a small shop. Thanks for answering.

[PatTheRat]

nanscamp, if they installed windows free of charge, they have installed a pirate copy of it on your machine. Essentially they have stole a copy of windows and put it on your computer, without your knowledge.

They have broke the law and let them know you will be taking it to Microsoft if they don't provide you with a licence.

[mattie]

maviscoull, yes the licence key is the 5 sets of 5 alphanumeric characters from the licence sticker.

I echo what PatTheRat has stated. Whether they installed Windows free of charge or not, they are required to provide you with a legimitate single user licence key.

I would demand that they provide you with one, even if they have to purchase one specially.

This link to the microsoft site shows what you should have on your PC case -

http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/YourPC_COA.msp x

[maviscoull]

ok......i`m back. after reading the following on another forum :
Look on the back of the tower.You should see a white sticker with the numbers on it. That is your license.

well i have just found it on mine !! my sticker is on the top of my tower ! i didnt know that so if ever i need the number, now i know where to find it. the sticker has the " windows " theme to it !