I am getting "This copy of Windows did not pass genuine validation" message and the screen stays black, although my product key number is valid! It was fine before now. How do I get the number to validate?

You'll have to call Microsoft by phone for them to help you activate Windows.
What happened prior to this message? Were you installing updates or getting something from the MS site?

I did install some updates.

What software are you recommending?

I have tried your suggestions to restore my computer to before I started receiving the message that my copy of Windows did not pass validation. I also am waiting for Kaleemyousaf's email about installing some kind of software that will correct this problem.
I have found no way to contact Microsoft or Dell regarding this problem without paying a steep fee for any help... which I do not feel I should have to pay since my copy of Windows XP IS valid! CAN ANYONE HELP ME?? :confused:

First, you don't need to post another thread, just reply in the pre-existing thread.
(Merge?)

Second, I wouldn't recommend downloading anything from an unreputable source, meaning from kaleemyousaf's email.

What type of computer are you on? Have you ever had to input a verification code before?

Thanks. I have a two-year old Dell that came preloaded with Windows XP. I have never had to reenter the code before!

Are you using the recovery software that came with the computer?
If so, there should not be issue but if you are installing a version of windows that did not come with the PC, this is where this question would be asked

Check with all the info that you got with the computer if it is still around on how to do a recovery back to factory reinstall

Thanks for the info. I will get everything out tomorrow and see what I can find. I do not remember seeing any recovery software, but will see if I can find it. I'll get back to you with what I find. Thanks, again.

Try the procedures listed at this page:

Windows Genuine Advantage does not validate a copy of Windows XP (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/916247)

Well, I thought this was going to work. I ran the diagnostics and everything checked out fine. No error messages. When I put in the code number, it tells me it cannot be validated!! I took the number off the side of my computer, and it is the same one that worked for two years. Any other suggestions?

You said you've tried to contact Microsoft and dell, and they charged you. How exactly did you try to contact them?

Did the validation site give you a reason the code could not be validated? Was it a valid code? If so, was it already in use?

Microsoft offers free email support for Windows Genuine Advantage. Have you tried submitting a support request?

Here's the site: WGA Help and Support (https://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?gprid=9860&st=1)

Just to be certain:
- are you getting that message while using the Windows key that's on the sticker on the side of your Dell?
- have you made any major hardware changes to that computer?

Yes, I am using the key from the side of the computer. I have not made any hardware changes.

You said you've tried to contact microsoft and dell, and they charged you. How exactly did you try to contact them?

I have called all the numbers available on their websites (which are not very many), and have run into "support" charges on all. Dell wants a repair ticket number, which I do not have and cannot supply.

Did the validation site give you a reason the code could not be validated? Was it a valid code? If so, was it already in use?

Microsoft offers free email support for Windows Genuine Advantage. Have you tried submitting a support request?

Here's the site: WGA Help and Support (https://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?gprid=9860&st=1)

The code should be valid as it is the one that came loaded on my computer. I will contact the site above. The only reason I got for the number not being validated is that I may be a victim of software counterfeiting.

I have called all the numbers available on their websites (which are not very many), and have run into "support" charges on all. Dell wants a repair ticket number, which I do not have and cannot supply.

I'm not sure with Dell, but if you don't have a repair ticket number with compaq, they give you one. It's basically a reference number so you don't have to give all your information again, like a customer number.

I know Microsoft has some toll-free lines where you can actually get to talk to real people... not sure which ones though. Have you tried 1-866-242-4609? (Just found that one online, will try to find more soon)

It sounds like someone has used your serial number to activate Windows on another computer or computers. If you can prove that you are the rightful owner, Microsoft may issue you a new key. Try calling the Windows Product Activation number at 1-888-571-2048 and see if they can help you.

The code should be valid as it is the one that came loaded on my computer. I will contact the site above. The only reason I got for the number not being validated is that I may be a victim of software counterfeiting.

Jim, thank you so much for telling me about the WGA email help. I emailed them and they sent me excellent instructions as to how to fix the problem. I followed their instructions, and the "this copy of Windows cannot be validated" message is gone! Everything is working great.

Thank so much, again... :D :D :D

Kay