I just bought this dell inspiron 1545, the windows 7 professional was never activated. I didn't get any software with it.How can I get this labtop activated, I can't afford to buy a win 7 upgrade. I only have a few days left before it will shut down on me. Can you help?

The product key necessary for activation is typically on a Certificate of Authenticity label attached to the computer for OEM licensed versions of Windows. To activate, run the activation wizard within Windows and enter the product key. However, large OEMs like Dell may also pre-activate so the customer (you) doesn't have to. If the laptop is new and obtained from Dell, contact Dell.

If the laptop was bought used and the CoA is absent, the legal thing to do is either buy a retail copy of Windows or request a Get Genuine kit (includes media and CoA) from any Microsoft OEM. Caveat emptor.

Check for the sticker on the bottom of the unit. Also check online to see if it even was offered with win7 pro. Was this a private party sale or from a dealer?