Windows XP: Why does Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder...

[IBMorBust]

...tell me that my Windows XP Pro Key # is different than what's on the Windows XP sticker on the bottom of my Thinkpad?

Also, why does it offer the option of changing the key number?

[bill bolton]

...tell me that my Windows XP Pro Key # is different than what's on the Windows XP sticker on the bottom of my Thinkpad?

The factory installed Microsoft OS image uses a volume licence key issued to Lenovo which is the same on all ThinkPads with that OS. The volume licence is legal as long as there is a valid Microsoft CoA (certificate of authenticity) attached to the particular system it is installed on.

To be valid, a CoA it must carry a unique printed key but that key doesn't need to match the non-unique VLK in the factory installed OS image key.

Questions about why Magic Jellybean Finder is the way it is should be directed to the author of the software.

Cheers,

Bill B.