Windows 7 Activation error 0XC004E003 Invalid Product Key

I have bought an original version of Windows 7 and recently due to a bootloader issue on my pc the product key become invalid? Now, when I try to activate Windows I am getting an error code 0XC004E003 all the time. I restart my pc try to again activate but same error. So does this means that I have to install the OS again freshly or is there any work around? Thanks

There is a Microsoft KB article describing how to resolve this error:

Method 1: Re-insert the product key by using the "Change product key" tool

1. Click Start, click Computer, and then click System properties on the toolbar.
2. In the Windows activation section, click Change product key.
3. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type your password, or click Continue.
4. In the Product key box, type the product key, and then click Next.
5. Follow the steps in the Windows Activation Wizard to complete the activation process.

More methods here: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950755

You can also use the telephone option to activate your version of Windows, follow the steps below:

You will first need to go to start or press Windows Logo Key + R key that will bring up the Run Dialog box. In that box, you will have to type slui 4 and press OK that will start the manual activation wizard. Then you will have to select the country where you live and click next. Now, in the wizard you will be able to see Toll Free phone number and you need to call on that number. Afterwards you just need to stay on the line and follow whatever being told told to you.

Go to the Assisted Support Options site of microsoft and select a product to see what assisted support options are available for your product. This applies only to product software purchased separately from your computer. Select a product from the categories below or visit the alphabetized Online Assistance Index page.

http://support.microsoft.com/common/...get=assistance

Hope that helps.

At the time of activation you might be getting an options to buy a new key online or "Talk to a support representative," so at that time what you can do is on the click on the link called 'Change Product Key' in the Windows Activation section in your system properties panel. To enter in the System Properties panel right click on computer and choose properties. From their enter the product key and press next to activate your windows version. Hope that helps.

Alternate steps to change the product key:

• Click the Start button
• Type: slui.exe 3 and hit the Enter key
• Type in the Product key from the sticker on your computer
• Click the Next button.
• You will be asked if want to Activate, click ok
• It will attempt to Activate by the internet and will return an Invalid Key error (this is ok, continue to step 7)
• Click the Start button
• Type: slui.exe 4 and hit the Enter key
• Select your location in the drop down menu and click the Next button
• The next screen provides the number to call to Activate by Phone