Error Message : "Your software cannot be activated because the Product Key you used to install the software is not valid"

Question

I entered a product key given to me and it tells me that it is not valid, I need to know how I can enter in a new product key, every time I open Word it just asks me to activate over the phone or internet, but neither option works.

Answer 1

Try the steps given in the link at the bottom to change the product key for Microsoft Office (this will allow you to enter a new product key):

Disclaimer: if you use Registry Editor incorrectly, you may cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that you can solve problems that result from using Registry Editor incorrectly. Use Registry Editor at your own risk

To back-up registry for Windows Vista refer to this link: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Back-up-the-registry

Note: to open Run on Windows Vista, click on Start > All Programs > Accessories

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http://support.microsoft.com/kb/895456

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Answer 2

OK, so I got a trial product key from the Microsoft website for a 60 day trial, but when I open Microsoft Word it is still telling me to activate over the phone or on the internet, where do I enter this new product key?

Answer 3

The key you are entering is for windows, not Office. If you have never bought Office, you must buy it to get a permanent key, no other way. What you have on the computer is a limited trial. You may ask for a trial product key if you like.

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Ron

Answer 4

My brother e-mailed it to me thinking that it was the one from my laptop, either he gave me the wrong one, or it just doesn't work. Microsoft Office came pre-installed on my lap top when I bought it last year.  Is there anyway that I can go back and enter a new product key?

Answer 5

Where di you get the product key and the software?

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Ron