Happened again :)... Have to call Microsoft. Activation just sucks!

By 0sit0
in Microsoft (Windows)

 Share

Recommended Posts

Grand Master

0sit0

Posted
Posted

So I buy a new hard drive and I was greeted by a very ugly window saying there was an error with my activation. First I restart the computer thinking it might go away and nothing. I decide to do a fresh install of Vista SP1 and now it is saying my key is being used. This happend a few months back after re-installing drivers. Windows Product Activation sucks! It wont stop pirates, it only affect us the genuine users! Like I said before... this is a genuine disadvantage. Why keep it? sigh... oh well!

ok just letting out some of my frustration :angry:

Grand Master

KeeperOfThePizza

Posted
Posted
genuine advantages needs to be destroyed as it does nothing.

x2 considering all my local friends have pirated copies.

That's all well and good, but when you're legitimately affected because you're trying to upgrade your machine, tbh - "that sux ass". Pure and simple.

It should be stopping more pirates, not annoying legitimate customers :/

Its meant to stop pirates. but will annoy legitimate customers, is what you mean.

dont get me wrong, i love microsoft.. but they need to go at a different approach to this.

Grand Master

gigapixels Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

I don't see why everybody complains. Call them up and get it taken care of. If you get so worked up over having to make a less than 15 minute call, you have more serious issues than just needing to activate Windows.

Grand Master

gigapixels Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

I've added a new HDD, added more RAM, totally swapped out my RAM, updated drivers plenty of times... I've never once had to re-activate besides when I swapped my motherboard.

Veteran

Darrian

Posted
Posted

"Lucky" most people, I would think. I've only had to do it once, and that was because I'd activated too many times. I do agree, though, you shouldn't ever have to call somebody else to get your computer to work properly. And as far as genuine advantage goes... where is the advantage? As far as I can see, there isn't one. Just one more hassle for the legitimate customer that affects nobody else.

Collaborator

Aahz

Posted
Posted

What could frustrate people?

1. Activation which is so finicky to begin with.

2. Having to call India and bust out the ole Rosetta Stone to decipher their very broken English into proper letters and numbers.

3. Having to call at all when the process should be handled successfully via the internet.

4. The fact that illegally cracking Vista takes far less time than legitimately activating Vista. (not to mention constantly re-activating Vista)

:angry:

Grand Master

gigapixels Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

Granted, it could go smoother, but I've never had problems calling in, and I've never had problems understanding the people I've spoken to (and I'm normally extremely bad when it comes to understanding an accent).

I guess I just don't complain about much, and this certainly isn't one of the things I would complain about.

Grand Master

JustGeorge

Posted
Posted

Wouldn't it be nice if they implemented an activation scheme similar to Apple's iTunes? You could just deactivate your OS prior to re-installing it and reactivate it when you're back up. I think this wouldn't make people feel like they're being treated like criminals and put some control back in our hands.

Grand Master

Tha Bloo Monkee

Posted
Posted
I don't see why everybody complains. Call them up and get it taken care of. If you get so worked up over having to make a less than 15 minute call, you have more serious issues than just needing to activate Windows.

I understand why people complain completely. Sure, it's a "15 minute call", but it's a 15 minute call WE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO DO! We paid for our copies of Windows! Now why do we have to waste OUR time calling them! I've had to do it about twice now, when it worked fine before. It's just annoying.

And don't give me that "you have more serious issues thing"; it's a generic excuse people give when somebody doesn't agree with everyone else.

I guess I just don't complain about much, and this certainly isn't one of the things I would complain about.

Yes, we're all genuine complainers who just love to complain, and you're Mr Perfect.

I mean, I don't make a significant deal of it all, I just find it such an annoyance to have to call in for something that we PAID for (or came with our computer, which is still included in the costs).

Grand Master

gigapixels Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted
I understand why people complain completely. Sure, it's a "15 minute call", but it's a 15 minute call WE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO DO! We paid for our copies of Windows! Now why do we have to waste OUR time calling them! I've had to do it about twice now, when it worked fine before. It's just annoying.

They're just trying to stop piracy, and they have every right to do so.

And don't give me that "you have more serious issues thing"; it's a generic excuse people give when somebody doesn't agree with everyone else.

I just don't get why there is a need to complain. Just deal with it and move on with your life, don't take the time to sit on a forum and cry because you had to make a phone call.

Yes, we're all genuine complainers who just love to complain, and you're Mr Perfect.

That was a bit out of line. I didn't say it as though I am superior, I'm just being truthful... I generally don't complain about much, if anything, so perhaps that's why I don't see the point of complaining about this.

This topic is now closed to further replies.
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.

  • Posts

    • Windows 11 version 26H2 is now available for testing in the latest preview build

      By TarasBuria · Posted

      Windows 11 version 26H2 is now available for testing in the latest preview build by Taras Buria Friday Windows 11 preview builds are here. Insiders in the Experimental (formerly Dev) and Beta Channel can download builds 26300.8697 and 26220.8690. There are no new features, but Microsoft is officially moving the Experimental Channel to version 26H2. In addition, Microsoft is improving the copy dialog in File Explorer, the Start menu reliability, and fixing virtualization issues. Here is the changelog: [General] With today’s build, Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel will see the versioning updated under Settings > System > About (and winver) to version 26H2. For more information, see the Windows Insiders blog. [File Explorer] We’ve improved the visual consistency and reliability of the Copy dialog in Dark mode, including its launch experience and the expanded progress view. [Start menu] - Also available in Beta Improved reliability of Start menu reflecting newly installed or removed apps without requiring sign-out or restart. [Taskbar] Fixed an issue for Insiders using the new smaller taskbar option, where the system tray might get cut off or pushed off screen. [Settings] - Also available in Beta Improved reliability of Settings > Apps > Startup. [Virtualization] - Also available in Beta This update addresses an issue that could result in bugchecks citing HYPERVISOR_ERROR (0x20001) and KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED (0x1E) errors after installing the latest flights on some devices during system restarts, virtual machine operations, or while running some gaming applications. You can find the official changelog for the Experimental build here and for the Beta build here.
    • We now know when and how the Universe may truly end

      By sphbecker · Posted

      I've always preferred this possibility. There is something that feels good about the idea that all matter in the universe will eventually come back together and maybe even result in another big bang. The idea that the universe would fizzle out over the eons and forever drift apart is a little depressing. I realize it is not logical to let a basic human desire for life to have a grand everlasting meaning change the way I feel about a scientific theory, but I am human, so that is how I feel :-).
    • Microsoft: Windows 11 could finally solve a major issue across AMD, Nvidia, and Intel GPUs

      By Jdoe25 · Posted

      Windoze 11 could finally go to hell, instead of making me savor yet another error I've never had. "Bad Pool Caller" or whatever TF cryptic crap0la message it is. Adding salt to injury, it says something along these lines (on the blank black screen after it hard stops): "Your windoze needs to restart. You can restart." NO WAY SHERLOCK. The PEECEE, look, it's *blocked*, I can do jack sh1t with it as it is and you say that it needs to restart? Further, that I can restart? What am I supposed to do, take a herbal bath? Sudo a sandwich? Timewaster pile of useless slop and errors, coded by monkeys and force-fed on us by a pedo-founded corporation, that's all there is to it. Now, let's have a fun weekend trying to handle the error, which after a quick internet check can basically be due to EVERYTHING, from memory faults to drivers to motherboard issues. Thanks M$.
    • Zen Browser 1.21.3b

      By Copernic · Posted

      Zen Browser 1.21.3b by Razvan Serea Zen Browser is a privacy-focused, open-source web browser built on Mozilla Firefox, offering users a secure and customizable browsing experience. It emphasizes privacy by blocking trackers, ads, and ensuring your data isn't collected. With Zen Mods, users can enhance their browser experience with various customization options, including features like split views and vertical tabs. The browser is designed for efficiency, providing fast browsing speeds and a lightweight interface. Zen Browser prioritizes user control over the browsing experience, offering a minimal yet powerful alternative to traditional web browsers while keeping your online activity private. Zen Browser’s DRM limitation Zen Browser currently lacks support for DRM-protected content, meaning streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max are inaccessible. This is due to the absence of a Widevine license, which requires significant costs and is financially unfeasible for the developer. Additionally, applying for this license would require Zen to be part of a larger company, similar to Mozilla or Brave. Therefore, DRM-protected media won't be supported in Zen Browser for the foreseeable future. Zen Browser offers features that improve user experience, privacy, and customization: Privacy-Focused: Blocks trackers and minimizes data collection. Automatic Updates: Keeps the browser updated with security patches. Zen Mods: Customizable themes and layouts. Workspaces: Organize tabs into different workspaces. Compact Mode: Maximizes screen space by minimizing UI elements. Zen Glance: Quick website previews. Split Views: View multiple tabs in the same window. Sidebar: Access bookmarks and tools quickly. Vertical Tabs: Manage tabs vertically. Container Tabs: Separate browsing sessions. Fast Profile Switcher: Switch between profiles easily. Tab Folders: Organize tabs into folders. Customizable UI: Personalize browser interface. Security Features: Inherits Firefox’s robust security. Fast Performance: Lightweight and optimized for speed. Zen Mods Customization: Deep customization with mods. Quick Access: Easy access to favorite websites. Open Source: Built on Mozilla Firefox with community collaboration. Community-Driven: Active development and feedback from users. GitHub Repository: Contribute and review the source code. Zen Browser 1.21.3b changelog: New Features Updated to Firefox 152.0.1 Fixes Fixed transparency not working after updating to 1.21.2b (#14259) Fixed frequent crashes affecting users with Intel Raptor Lake processors Fixed an issue on macOS where choosing a PDF option, such as "Save as PDF", from the system print dialog would send the job to your printer instead of saving a file. Other minor bug fixes and improvements. Download: Zen Browser | 90.2 MB (Open Source) Download: Zen Browser ARM64 | Other Operating Systems View: Zen Browser Home Page | Screenshots 1 | 2 | Reddit Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • Get 1-year and $60 of Sam's Club value for just $15 with Auto-renew

      By News Staff · Posted

      Get 1-year and $60 of Sam's Club value for just $15 with Auto-renew by Steven Parker Become a Sam's Club Member Now! Shop Premium-Quality Products and Enjoy Incredible Perks, and Savings. Today's highlighted deal comes via our Gift Cards section of the Neowin Deals store, where for only a limited time, you can save 75% off a Sam's Club 1 Year Membership with Auto-Renew. Sam’s Club is a membership warehouse club, a limited-item business model that offers members quality products at an exceptional value unmatched by traditional retail. From groceries and kitchen supplies to electronics and furniture, Sam's Club has great deals on the items you want! By redeeming and signing up as a member, you'll be paying just $20 for a 1 year Sam's Club membership (normally $50.) You'll receive a complimentary household card for more savings from already low-priced items. Sign up now and save money on all your food and decor. Find great deals on groceries, kitchen supplies, electronic, furniture & more Get discounts on hotels, rental car, live events, attractions, movies, & more Save up to 60% on hotel accommodations around the world Get a complimentary household card for more savings from already low-priced items Although it was published quite some time ago, Sam's Club members can enjoy discounts like this. Important Details For a physical membership card after online membership registration, present your phone number or email along with a valid ID at Sam’s Club Membership Services in any US Sam's Club location to have your membership card printed. This membership offer is only available to new Sam's Club members in the USA. It is not valid for membership renewals, for those with a current membership, or those who were Sam’s Club members less than 6 months prior to the current date. To check your renewal date, please check your billing statement or your online account, or chat with an associate. Promotion code is non-transferable Offer valid for new Sam’s Club members only; not valid for membership renewals, for those with a current membership, or those who were Sam’s Club members less than 6 months prior to the current date. Auto Renew: By accepting this offer, you authorize annual recurring charges to any card on file for your Sam's Club membership fee(s) plus any applicable taxes at then-current rate every year until you cancel. Current rates, which may change, are $50 for Club level and $110 for Plus level. Visit SamsClub.com or a club or call 1-888-746-7726 for full terms or to cancel auto-renewal. Valid at over 597 U.S. Sam’s Club locations. Find a location near you. Redemption deadline: redeem your code within 30 days of purchase Access options: desktop & mobile Membership MUST be activated within 30 days Membership expires 1 YEAR from the date the Sam's Club membership is activated Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 additional as gift This Sam's Club 1 Year Membership normally costs $60, but can now be yours for just $15, for a limited time, that's a saving of $45 (70%) off! For specifications, and terms, please click the link below. Get 1-year of Sam's Club with Auto-renew for just $15 (was $60) This deal is only available to U.S. residents. Support queries If you have queries or need support for any of the Neowin Deals, please use the contact form here. Neowin Deals are managed and sold by StackCommerce who represent Neowin on an affiliate basis. Why we post these deals We post these because we earn commission on each sale so as not to rely solely on advertising, which many of our readers block. It all helps toward paying staff reporters, servers and hosting costs. So for those that keep moaning and complaining, be thankful we're still online for you to even do that. Other ways to support Neowin Whitelist Neowin by not blocking our ads Create a free member account to see fewer ads Make a donation to support our day to day running costs Subscribe to Neowin - for $14 a year, or $28 a year for an ad-free experience Disclosure: Neowin benefits from revenue of each sale made through our branded deals site powered by StackCommerce.

  • Recent Achievements

    • Collaborator
      ryansurfer98 went up a rank
      Collaborator
    • Week One Done
      Eurosoft10 earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • One Month Later
      Eurosoft10 earned a badge
      One Month Later
    • One Year In
      Skeet Campbell earned a badge
      One Year In
    • One Month Later
      Sharbel earned a badge
      One Month Later

  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      578
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      190
    3. 3
      Michael Scrip
      77
    4. 4
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      76
    5. 5
      Steven P.
      73
    Show More

  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!