Mey mate, the cmd actually ask for the product key for backing up the activation. So which product key should I use here, the one which is on the back of the laptop or the one which is in the installed OS? You need to use OEM:SLP key the one used for the installation not the OEM:COA key on the back of the laptop. You would be better of using Advanced Tokens Manager if you click on the small green orb on top right corner of the application and select your windows dvd folder it will make $oem$ folder for you. I cannot understand why you do not use OEM:SLP key + Certificate to pre-activate Information is available on the forum with the link I gave.