I installed it and it seems to work fine, but every now and then I get a message saying I need to 'activate windows'. When I try to do this, the activation key doesn't work (I called them and had them enter it and it still didn't work) Is that because this is a counterfeit copy? What does activating Windows even mean if it's already running fine? I installed it and it seems to work fine, but every now and then I get a message saying I need to 'activate windows'. When I try to do this, the activation key doesn't work (I called... » Read More I installed it and it seems to work fine, but every now and then I get a message saying I need to 'activate windows'. When I try to do this, the activation key doesn't work (I called them and had them enter it and it still didn't work) Is that because this is a counterfeit copy? What does activating Windows even mean if it's already running fine? « Show Less
995632
I do not know why you would be having a problem activating. You could take a look at this: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/why-activate-windowsActivation carries very few real benefits. It's a nuisance to have an unactivated copy, but you can ignore the activation messages and still use the computer for now. Certain Microsoft products such as Microsoft Security Essentials might require an activated version of Windows before you can use them (at least this happened in 7). I don't know if not having it activated will cause you problems down the line, so I recommend getting that fixed as soon as possible. Try contacting the seller and let them know the key you got doesn't work. I do not know why you would be having a problem activating. You could take a look at this: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/why-activate-windowsActivation carries very few real benefits. It's a nuisance to have an unactivated copy, but you can ignore the activation messages and still use the computer for now. Certain Microsoft products such as Microsoft Security Essentials might require an activated version of Windows before you can use them (at least this happened in 7). I don't know if not having it activated will cause you problems down the line, so I... » Read More I do not know why you would be having a problem activating. You could take a look at this: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/why-activate-windowsActivation carries very few real benefits. It's a nuisance to have an unactivated copy, but you can ignore the activation messages and still use the computer for now. Certain Microsoft products such as Microsoft Security Essentials might require an activated version of Windows before you can use them (at least this happened in 7). I don't know if not having it activated will cause you problems down the line, so I recommend getting that fixed as soon as possible. Try contacting the seller and let them know the key you got doesn't work. « Show Less
995633
To activate it, there is a code on the back. You have to register your product to make sure that no one is sending around duplicate copies. If that copy doesn't work then someone has already used that key. I would send a message to who you purchased it, or keep trying to contact windows.
995634
I know with older Windows products it will eventually stop running and you will HAVE to register Windows. I had the displeasure of finding that out myself. Without registering your OS your system will eventually become useless. This COULD very well mean you have an illegal copy. Worst case scenario. There's an FAQ here if it helps any: http://www.microsoft.com/OEM/en/Pages/support-faq.aspx#fbid=E_yFDd6LS5OIf Microsoft can't help you, you should contact the distributor. If they can't help, then they deserve a really REALLY bad review.
168282
It all depends on what other changes you have made.Just ring Microsoft and let them know what you have done and they will give you new activation code :)
980478
It absolutely did NOT work for mine, and I tried to use it on other computers with W7 with no luck. Also, if it doesn't work, this company will harass you nonstop for a negative review. I would strongly recommend not wasting your time and money. :o\
1059870
I have the same problem but for ALL updates - there are about 60 some odd updates that need to be applied and I can't get them to apply. I've tried a few things I saw online but gave up when none of them worked. I need to completely re-install Windows on it. Do you remember if it came with a Windows disk? I can't find one.
1049073
i honestly can't find any info on it. the device itself is to small to have any serial number on it and windows loads and installs its own drivers automatically. it comes with install disc but i never had to use it. recognized by windows vist, 7 and 8. Also i've had no issues with its performance. paired it with a keyboard and works great. hope i helped in someway.
2254603
Mine is loaded with windows 7 and works perfectly, no errors. Mine is refurbished also and I made a very good purchase!!
468547
I just added an SSD in the m2 slot and used imaging software to clone the drive. In my experience with Windows 8, it actually stores the Windows 8 key in the BIOS, so it will install with the correct key by itself (only with computers shipped with Windows 8).
1196944
I bought my G7-2017us and it has been a very solid performer for me. It's the best I've EVER had. I have uploaded and downloaded and upgraded everything imaginable and never got the message you got. I know my Windows if definitely genuine.
1531329
you don't need the product key, you need to activate you windows by using online activation system or call your local Microsoft call center and they will activate it for you for free, my advice is to remove windows 8 and install windows 7 much faster at this laptop, that what I did but you need someone how is really good at formatting computers... I hope that helpful
726696
I had no problem at all installing the drive . My problem came in when I installed my copy of Windows 7 and the old drive contained the Old Windows XP ops system. So I started getting statements that my Ops System might be counterfeit. So I spent $67.00 and ordered a full Win 7 Professional and everything is great now. Sorry I could not be of more help.Travis
655684
The first thing I did with mine was to swap in a SSD, so similar situation with a new blank drive. The Windows 8 activation is in the hardware so just get a copy of the Windows 8 installer (friend's disc or download the ISO and burn a disc or USB from another computer). Once installed you'll have to use the hard-line Ethernet to update Windows (WiFi won't be working at this point). Once all the Windows Updates are done put in the model number on Asus's support site for the rest of the software and drivers. Then run Windows Update one more time just in case. At least that's how I spent my first Saturday with mine. The first thing I did with mine was to swap in a SSD, so similar situation with a new blank drive. The Windows 8 activation is in the hardware so just get a copy of the Windows 8 installer (friend's disc or download the ISO and burn a disc or USB from another computer). Once installed you'll have to use the hard-line Ethernet to update Windows (WiFi won't be working at this point). Once all the Windows Updates are done put in the model number on Asus's support site for the rest of the software and drivers. Then run Windows Update one more time just in case. At least... » Read More The first thing I did with mine was to swap in a SSD, so similar situation with a new blank drive. The Windows 8 activation is in the hardware so just get a copy of the Windows 8 installer (friend's disc or download the ISO and burn a disc or USB from another computer). Once installed you'll have to use the hard-line Ethernet to update Windows (WiFi won't be working at this point). Once all the Windows Updates are done put in the model number on Asus's support site for the rest of the software and drivers. Then run Windows Update one more time just in case. At least that's how I spent my first Saturday with mine. « Show Less
687025
I have been thinking about it but after reading everything I can find it doesn't appear to be anything I would tackle myself. The cost of hiring an expert and buying Windows 7 would come close to buying another computer. I am using this Windows 8 machine and hating it every minute. As soon as I can afford it I am trashing it and buying something else. The actual hardware seems good. It is just the operating system that is trash. I would not buy it. I would search for an older computer with Windows 7 on it. I have Windows 7 on my laptop and love it. I hope this helps. Charles
2209440
Mike, thank you for responding. I know the terms of an OEM license, but since I already own a Windows 7 Ultimate retail license I was wondering if Windows 8 will have such license. That's why I was wondering if this license was different since I also know that Windows 8 has different license terms than Windows 7.
999427
You do it exactly the same as you download it for your first PC. We actually downloaded the version that we bought (the latest at that time) from their website and then just entered the KEY#
736710
Thanks Terence!This is exactly the info I was looking for! One more question, do you know if the copy of Windows 7 that is factory-installed comes already activated or do you have to activate it on first-boot? If I am to replace the hard drive with a new one (that being the only change) I don't want to face potential activation lock-out because Microsoft thinks I'm trying to install it on an entirely different machine.
316371
It auto-detected and istalled in Win7 for me. I think Windows supports and is bundled with most "stardard" drivers (eg. FTDI?). If it didn't detect/install I suspect you either have a conflict(check device manager) ot the device is broken.
1979201
Answered by Bryan a few months back. Please see his response. My response is to stay away from the product because it did not work, conditions mentioned by other users. It's a great idea, just my experience - and others - that required a refund from Microsoft.