Complex Windows Vista/7/10 Activation Issue

[cjfilmmaker]

Hi,
A few years ago I purchased a used computer from a seller on craigslist. I had it custom built to my specifications, and it came with Windows 7 Ultimate on it. I was very happy with the machine, and recently upgraded it to Windows 10. I experienced some startup issues with 10, and realized that I like 7 a lot better, so instead of bothering to fix the startup problems, I just entered Win RE, and reverted to the original installation.

However, Windows 7 is now no longer activated (after downgrading), and I just realized that my battered COA actually is for Vista Ultimate, not 7. I can't contact the original seller, and am unable to upgrade to 10 because my system is not activated. Downgrading to Vista would require a complete OS re-installation, which I really would rather not have to reinstall all the software on my computer, especially since I am not the best about keeping installers downloaded from the internet.

I'm wondering if anyone has any idea which course would be best. I don't necessarily mind buying a Windows 7 Ultimate license, but they seem hard to come by these days and very expensive. What are my options here? Thanks!

 

[NerdyComputerGuy]

Hi
I see the issue that you are having...

Here is a website that will help you find your missing license key, this may or not work since you say the sticker says the computers hardware is connected to Vista and not 7 but read through the page and see if you can find some usable / useful information!

Resource: http://www.7tutorials.com/how-recover-your-lost-windows-7-or-windows-8-product-key

Many thanks,

 

[jsmithepa]

jsmithepa rule #5: Before any MAJOR update, make sure you have a way to UNDO.

 

[cjfilmmaker]

Hi
I see the issue that you are having...

Here is a website that will help you find your missing license key, this may or not work since you say the sticker says the computers hardware is connected to Vista and not 7 but read through the page and see if you can find some usable / useful information!

Resource: http://www.7tutorials.com/how-recover-your-lost-windows-7-or-windows-8-product-key

Many thanks,

Thanks so much for your advice. I ended up being able to contact the original seller, and he sent me an activation program that fixed everything. Apparently he has some kind of OEM volume licensing agreement with Microsoft. I also tried your solution and it worked as well, so thank you.

 

[NerdyComputerGuy]

Hi
I see the issue that you are having...

Here is a website that will help you find your missing license key, this may or not work since you say the sticker says the computers hardware is connected to Vista and not 7 but read through the page and see if you can find some usable / useful information!

Resource: http://www.7tutorials.com/how-recover-your-lost-windows-7-or-windows-8-product-key

Many thanks,

Thanks so much for your advice. I ended up being able to contact the original seller, and he sent me an activation program that fixed everything. Apparently he has some kind of OEM volume licensing agreement with Microsoft. I also tried your solution and it worked as well, so thank you.

Glad that you got the issue fixed 😀

 

[wasserty]

Hi
I see the issue that you are having...

Here is a website that will help you find your missing license key, this may or not work since you say the sticker says the computers hardware is connected to Vista and not 7 but read through the page and see if you can find some usable / useful information!
Resource:
Many thanks,

What you mean that we can recover the lost license key or password , instead of resetting it ,thanks , this is in line with my needs, i don't want to risk my computer,but I don't know why many people suggest that I reset my computer, or reinstall the system ,

 

[USAFRet]

What you mean that we can recover the lost license key or password , instead of resetting it ,thanks , this is in line with my needs, i don't want to risk my computer,but I don't know why many people suggest that I reset my computer, or reinstall the system ,

Please start a whole new thread for your specific issue.
Thanks.