after replacing HDD Windows7 is not "genuine" .. how to get new activation code etc

jdeecker
jdeecker Member Posts: 2 New User

I have a Acer desktop Aspire M5811 that is out of warranty The hard drive failed and I replaced it. I used Acronis software to clone the old drive to the new drive. It executed fine and almost all software works .. except a number of functions in Windows 7 (like updates and copy from Internet Explorer do not .. and I get error messages stating windows 7 is not a “genuine copy” .. the current activation code is ****** Microsoft has been no help as they say “Buy” a new copy / activation key or contact Acer for help, or reinstall from original factory info and all the programs. Files data etc since the beginning. That would take a rather long time as I have many programs to do. It seems I need a new activation code from Acer and instructions how to apply it .. the computer information page states the product is activated and provides no method to change the code. I am out of warranty so Acer says go to the community forums etc .. I hope you can help or else I’m in for a long week of reinstalling.. John

 

[edited for privacy]

Answers

  • Tommy-Acer
    Tommy-Acer VIP Posts: 6,317 Seasoned Specialist WiFi Icon

    Acer does not provide "new activation codes". 

    You need to reinstall the operating system from the recovery media you created when you first received the system.

     

    Please review this article:
    Reloading your Acer Computer

  • jdeecker
    jdeecker Member Posts: 2 New User

     

     No activation codes provided ... so when the C hard drive fails ...  what is the recommended procedure for migrating the system and programs to new hard drive .. without having completely reloading and reinstalling 50+ programs and hardware that have been installed since the machine was purchased 3 years ago.

     

    Is their a way the ACER recovery system(s) can do this?  Or maybe a third party program?  

  • Tommy-Acer
    Tommy-Acer VIP Posts: 6,317 Seasoned Specialist WiFi Icon

    Windows Easy Transfer is one program from Microsoft specifically designed to do this.

      http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/products/features/windows-easy-transfer

     

    "When you're switching to a new PC, Windows Easy Transfer helps you transfer your files, email, pictures, and settings. In Windows 7, it lives up to the "easy" in its name."

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