Major Windows Vista Bug Can Lock You Out
When you start Microsoft Windows Vista, you may receive the following error message:
Activate Windows Now
Your activation period has expired and Windows is no longer working.
To use Windows you must activate this copy of Windows.
If you’re like most people with Windows Vista you’ve installed device drivers and new applications. Unfortunately this common behavior can cause Windows Vista to require reactivation. Depending upon the type of installation and the license type, Retail, OEM, or VLK, the operating system may limit the amount of time it can be used without activation. If you fail to activate within 30 days Windows Vista may limit itself to very basic functionality or lock even you out all together.
“You may be prompted to activate Windows Vista on a computer on which Windows Vista activation was not previously required. Although this problem rarely occurs, it may occur during typical use of a Windows Vista-based computer.”
The Fix
The Microsoft recommend fix is to attempt reactivation online, which doesn’t always work, or to call Microsoft’s Activation Hotline at (888) 571-2048. Once activated you need to install update 931573 via Windows Update. Microsoft claims this only affects a small number of users, but I’ve personally experienced this problem with a retail installation, and so has one of my associates.
Prevent Deactivation
Use Windows Update to install update 931573 or visit the following Microsoft Web site http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com.
Like most anything else, glitches are expected with any new program/softwares, etc. I’m sure Microsoft will correct these like they have done with the past programs. I’m looking forward to getting Vista.
My Laptop computer has a built in camera. Everytime I start the computer, I get a message that the camera is locked by another program. When the computer was new, it only happened if I di not turn the camera on for several minutes, but now it locks every time I turn on the computer. I have tried to find the program but can’t. Any ideas.