problem. good key install, but not activate

[1boredguy]

i have a key that works just fine with a integrated sp2 unattended install, using nLite to input the key.

but that same exact key doesn't activate windows when i use the deploy.cab tool.

after making the winnt.sif file , its shown the key perfectly fine. and the unattended installation goes through with no prompts. but windows never gets activated.

is there something else i should check or do?

thanks/danke/mahalo for any input!

[MHz]

Serial key lets you install windows. Not activate it.

To auto-activate, insert below into winnt.sif:

[unattended]

AutoActivate = Yes

May need to have online access during install though.

Or do it when, at first logon?

[mazin]

Serial key lets you install windows. Not activate it.

To auto-activate, insert below into winnt.sif:

[unattended]

AutoActivate = Yes

May need to have online access during install though.

Or do it when, at first logon?

Perfect!

A third solution is use WinXP Manager to copy your activation phile(z) for use in a future installation. Activation is machine specific, hah!

This is what I do with Office, too. CHEERS!