windows activation problem

[Arc]

another delema, I have installed windows xp pro, sp1a on a computer in my room, now I have to activate windows. I have 27 days left, I had it hooked up to the internet for a while, when I entered my serial #, (which is not in use), the activation thingy told me it wasn't correct, and wanted me to pay $30 to email microsoft, or the $100+ for another serial
any sugestions on what to do?

[homer]

call them up. the # of activations might have been exceeded. a simple phone call would clear that up.

[GX1_Man]

If it is truly legal then call Microsoft on the phone and explain it to them.

[Arc]

sounds like a plan, I guess I will call tomarrow and see

Thanks for the info

[Maksim]

If you dont want to call.. or if this is a stolen serial number then.. there are tools to bypass that.. and generate a new serial number that will be valid..

[Rob Pomeroy]

But of course if it is a stolen serial number then the opening poster would be handling stolen goods, effectively.  That clearly is not something we can recommend or condone.  

[dl65]

If you dont want to call.. or if this is a stolen serial number then.. there are tools to bypass that.. and generate a new serial number that will be valid..

.......

I am sure the poster is aware of that , however ........ as stated by Rob ....... assisting people to pirate software , is not something that Computer Hope will not be a party to .

dl65  

[homer]

and half of those "windows keygens" are laced with viruses. did i say half, i meant 98%.