When I switch on my computer I get the message 'This copy of Windows is not genuine' Whats going on?
488244
you have not registered your copy of windows or have shared it with someone who has? One of the latest windows updates checks to see if you have a genuine legal copy.
533642
If you registered with Microsoft, call their support and they may be able send you copy. Most likely it is out of support so    you may be SOL
415171
no way to get around it if it fails because your copy of windows is illegal. the only way would be to get a legal copy of windows, format your hard drive and install the legal copy.\nyou could also try Mozelle fire fox as your web browser
173306
there are way too many things that could be wrong.  \ndepending on what u did right before this happened there could be a million possible solutions.  \n\nbut try this, u will probably reformat the drive and reinstall windows.  if u messed with the inside of your computer or bios then thats probably not it.
483777
Simply call Microsoft and say that you have a counterfeit disk and that you are looking to become a legit user. I believe at one point Microsoft was willing to issue out legit copies of the OS (maybe a discounted price) to those who realized their system wasn't genuine. Aka... amnesty. \n\nMicrosoft doesn't want rogue unpatched systems out there hurting their products. That is why they are usually willing to work with you on obtaining a legal copy. It may or may not be free, but I am sure it will be discounted.\n\nOn a side note, you may also want to wait for Vista to come out. Whenever that is...
268809
Try uninstalling the drive using the Device Manager, and then reboot the computer.  When the computer reboots, Windows should detect the drive as "new hardware", and reinstall the drivers for it.  At that point you can try the drive out to see if it has restored its functionality.  If not, my suggestion would be to purchase a new drive to replace your present one.
432455
software issue\ntry reintalling Windows
570753
If you have your Windows 2000 installation media (CD), you can use it to (try to) recover your Windows installation, which sounds like it may be corrupted.\n\nInsert the CD in the CD-ROM drive and boot or reboot your PC.\n\nWhen it comes up select "Repair Windows Installation". I don't have it in front of me so I can't tell you what the exact key is, just read the screen carefully and it will tell you what to do.\n\nIf this procedure does not fix the problem call a tech-savvy friend or relative, your PC manufacturers hotline (like Dell, or HP, etc.) or contact a technical support service like GeekSquad or similar. Another option is to take the PC (not the monitor, keyboard, mouse, just the PC) to a local computer repair center.
806025
Welcome your new friend the B.S.O.D (blue screen of death)\n\nIf the message is saying your HDD is corrupt, then your chances of it working normally is pretty much slim, Your best chance is to re-install your version of Windows...\n\nOr if your using XP, try using the repair function on the disc instead of a full re-install...\n\nhope this helps
1042889
Hahahha. Reinstall windows.
831101
It happens, just go to 'my computer', then find the drive and double click, it will then start up. It can get annoying but windows is lame so what do you expect?
856207
do a complete wipe and reload after backing up your files because what you did was put 2 copys of windows on top of each other when one wasnt working
591229
All the other things will stop working if you wipe it clean and start over. However, you should be able to re-install a legitimate copy of Windows over top of the existing one and everything in the registry for the other programs will be kept, and the programs should still work....even if they are counterfeit.\nMine came with XP Home Edition already installed.
906561
Try buying the real version instead of stealing one.\n\nThe real version has the user license.
763817
I am going to believe that you have a legit copy as you say.\n\nwhen windows updates there list of bad serials they sometimes hit good ones, it is not very often but it does happen.\n\n\nthere are also programs that can generate random keys, if you key was used by pirates they would block your serial.\n\nGive Microsoft a call and they will help you out. You will need your serial number and info on where you got your copy. \n\nThis happened to a group of PCs at my high school. (some kids lifted the serial)\n\nmore on what you can do:\n"Complimentary offer: Microsoft will make a complimentary copy of Windows XP available to customers who have been sold counterfeit Windows. Customers will be required to submit a proof of purchase, the counterfeit CD, and a counterfeit report with details of their purchase. Only high-quality counterfeit Windows will qualify for the complimentary offer."\n\nmake a backup of you cd and key and then send in the orignals with proof of purcase.\n\nall the info you need is on:\nhttp://www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/FAQ.aspx?displaylang=en#Question5Label
181212
the unit where you start windows has bad sectors, the HDD, or FDD that you're using to start test it with chkdsk.exe starting in safe mode with DOS prompt. Check if your CD has no scratches (if you're talking about start the windows install)
978724
You are risking Legal action ...big time !!!  When you activate Windows your P/C logs details of your Hardware systems and issues them with a security code identity which identifies your machine on the Microsoft database.Microsoft have a database of dodgy Product Keys and are catching up fast with the pirate copies.Activation of your copied software puts you in the frame mate!!! Buy a legal copy and save yourself big trouble.Iv'e been building Systems for years using Licenced Windows Operating systems and I know of loads of System builders who have cut corners and have now got lovely big fines to pay to Mr.Gates.Use your loaf and get an OEM Licence at least !!!