License Key -

[johngerard513]

Hi

I recently had to change my SSD and reinstall the OS using the HP CD. My laptop doesn't have a sticker, I believe from MS support this is common and HP embed the license key in the hardware. I used an app, Belarc, to retriev the license keys from an SSD clone I have of the main SSD, This was 74T2M-DKDBC-788W3-H689G-6P6GT. When I entered this in the validate license key it errored and it also failed on the W10 clean install. After various discussions with MS support I understand that HP can deactivate the key after a hardware change. I have also found some indication that this is a 'common' key of some sort - see below. My question is; is this correct and if so how do I get the unique key that is partnered to my laptop?  Or is what I have been advised incorrect and I have had a dodgy license key for the past 3 years? 

Many thanks and any help/advice much appreciated

John Gerard

See below for snippets from MS conversations and the other forums ref this key

The problem here is the difference between OWM_SLP Keys, and COA_SLP Keys. ALL machines supplied by HP (everywhere!) with Win 7 Pro will have the following Key 74T2M-DKDBC-788W3-H689G-6P6GT They will also have a COA sticker on them with the COA_SLP Key which is specific to that machine. If your auditors are unaware of this, then they are living in cloud cuckoo-land. Please post an MGADiag report for one of the disputed machines - If the Key indicated is an OEM_SLP Key, then your are OK - if it's anything else other than a Volume License Key, then you are in trouble, technically.

MS 

HP embeds their license in the hardware in which if there are such hardware changes the key will deactivate. I know that this can be difficult. Here is what i suggest. It will be helpful to contact HP regarding this in order to check what is the original key embedded on this hardware I'm sure they have a tool to check the key partnered to the hardware. Once we have this we can then easily reactivate your windows.

[Huffer]

For Windows 7 the Key Code was not embedded in the hardware if that was the native OS. That is only true for 8 and higher.  HP has not deactivated any keys. Did you look in the battery bay for a Key Code?

[johngerard513 · Accepted solution]

Hi

Thanks yes I found it there. I have had that battery out a few times replacing the SSD and after I posted I recalled seeing 'somthing' under the battery and there it was. 

Cheers

John

[Huffer]

It is customary to give the "Solution" to the person who gave the answer. It just saved you about $100 it would have cost to buy new Windows. 

[johngerard513]

Operator error.