Brought Windows 8 Full Version

CRCSUX

Member
Dec 10, 2012
143
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So I brought Windows 8 full version, or so I thought.
Now I have an icon in the bottom right corner saying "Activate Windows now". I try but an error says my key can only be used for upgrading.

I don't have a base windows system, MS told me to buy one but they don't sell them :( Seems like no one sells them.

What can I do?
Why is there an option for a clean install if theres no clean install keys?

I vendor I brought it off said it was a full version.
 
Last edited:

VirtualLarry

No Lifer
Aug 25, 2001
56,585
10,225
126
All Windows 8 retail-box versions are "Upgrade" versions. There IS NO "Full Retail" edition of Windows 8, nor 8 Pro.

If you want a full version, you need to purchase the OEM System Builder pack edition.
 

CRCSUX

Member
Dec 10, 2012
143
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0
Is there anyway I can use my version? Can I buy say old old xp or 7 key and insert that somewhere? Will I have to reinstall?
 

Mem

Lifer
Apr 23, 2000
21,476
13
81
So I brought Windows 8 full version, or so I thought.
Now I have an icon in the bottom right corner saying "Activate Windows now". I try but an error says my key can only be used for upgrading.

I don't have a base windows system, MS told me to buy one but they don't sell them :( Seems like no one sells them.

What can I do?
Why is there an option for a clean install if theres no clean install keys?

I vendor I brought it off said it was a full version.


Try this if you did a clean install http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/...-used-to/1726d238-98fb-4634-a468-04645a8ee097
 

CRCSUX

Member
Dec 10, 2012
143
0
0
Thank you, yes thats the same suggestion sze5003 gave.

Here it is in the forum for if ever the other places go down.

Code:
1. Run the registry editor (regedit) 
2. Find the following key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Setup\OOBE 
3. Change the value for 'MediaBootInstall' from 1 to 0 
4. Open an elevated command prompt (run as admin) 
5. Run the following command: slmgr -rearm 
6. Reboot
I assume theres no problem with me posting this in here.
Thanks once again all, very happy this worked.