Solved Activate retail Windows 8.1 with Windows 8 Product key.

When I test the OEM key on a VBox machine with Windows Single Language ISO, the key fails.

Do not test the activation on the second computer (for example VirtualBox or VMware Player), because then you have to call the activation robot.

http://www.eightforums.com/installa...sfer-new-windows-8-1-computer.html#post343592

If you receive an error message: This key didn't work, please check it and try again, or try a different key.

Select Cancel.

Now you will see text that says: This product key is being used on another PC. Please try a different key.

Then you need select Call support.

NOTE: The activation robot asks you how many PCs you have installed Windows on. The correct answer is number 1.


No, you can not transfer the OS to a new PC, as this is a OEM manufacturer's PC licence.

Microsoft said:
Can I transfer the software to another user? You may transfer the software directly to another user, only with the licensed computer. The transfer must include the software, proof of purchase, and, if provided with the computer, an authentic Windows label such as the certificate of authenticity label including the product key. You may not keep any copies of the software or any earlier version. Before any permitted transfer, the other party must agree that this agreement applies to the transfer and use of the software.
 
I'm not transfering the OS. In my case, I would be reinstalling on the same machine it came with. The machine came with Windows 8, and no OS disc was supplied.
 
I'm not transfering the OS. In my case, I would be reinstalling on the same machine it came with. The machine came with Windows 8, and no OS disc was supplied.

When I test the OEM key on a VBox machine with Windows Single Language ISO, the key fails.
Does it need to be done only on THE SAID computer for it to work?


Have you made the OEM manufacturer's Recovery Disks?



information   Information

We always assume you have made your Recovery Disks using the OEM manufacturer's Recovery Media Creator app the first day you had your new PC.
& made the Startup Repair CD. (Windows 8 only)
http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/5132-recovery-drive-create-usb-flash-drive-windows-8-a.html
http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/2855-system-repair-disc-create-windows-8-a.html (Windows 8 only)




I would recommend you making the OEM manufacturer's Recovery DVD's or USB drive.
or
You can order the Microsoft official OEM Recovery disks from the OEM manufacturer's website.
 
Ok, so from my understanding... when it finds the OEM key laying on UEFI, it automagically bypasses all this... of course, when installing on the proper OEM machine... right?

You do not need to call the activation robot.

If you have an OEM computer with UEFI firmware (BIOS) embedded Windows 8 product key.

- Windows 8 installer will detect product key from UEFI firmware (BIOS) and activate Windows 8 automatically.

- Windows 8.1 installer does not accept UEFI firmware (BIOS) embedded Windows 8 product key. You have to enter Windows 8.1 generic product key to install Windows 8.1.

Windows 8.1 Single Language: Y9NXP-XT8MV-PT9TG-97CT3-9D6TC
 
No need for a generic product key on OEM manufacturer's PC to do a clean install, you use the OEM recovery media.
 
- Windows 8.1 installer does not accept UEFI firmware (BIOS) embedded Windows 8 product key. You have to enter Windows 8.1 generic product key to install Windows 8.1.

Alright, then will I be able to change to the original OEM key afterwards?


The folks suggesting the "OEM Recovery Install Disk" well, I dunno... That was not the solution I was looking for. I am looking for a solution GROUND ZERO really. Worst possible case. Total hard drive failure. So I am backed up with a clean OS install. The laptop has a recovery partition and such things, but I believe it transfer all the OEM crap with it...
 
This is some good info for a work around on "Activate retail Windows 8.1 with Windows 8 Product key" I performed a simular procedure yesterday but this looks to be a better option Ill be trying it out today! Thanks Guys Good stuff
 
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