Need to find out if a Windows product key is used.

[dragonbayn]

I installed Windows 8 using a generic key. I then updated to Windows 8.1. I have a valid key for the Windows 8.1 Pro Pack. I entered this key to activate and it seemed to work, but then a screen appeared stating that I need to enter a valid Windows 8 key to continue. Since I do not have one I could not. My question is if the 8.1 Pro Pack key will now be "used". I planned to give it to someone else. The only method I have found so far is to install it and verify thru Microsoft, which I cannot do.

 

[bignastyid]

You'll have to contact Microsoft.

 

[SkyNetRising]

You have installed Windows 8.1, but you have Windows 8.1 Pro install key.
You'll need to upgrade to Windows 8.1 Pro to use that key.
Here's how:
http://www.intowindows.com/how-to-upgrade-windows-8-to-windows-8-pro/

 

[mattcrow]

Why can't you verify it through Microsoft? They have a special line for activating Windows, it's free of charge, and all the times I tried it, it worked flawlessly.