Powersurge wrote:God Microsoft are getting paranoid, you didn't need a key for XP, you just need to verify that you are running a genuine version of XP every now and then.
Um...I never encountered a version of Windows that didn't require the Key...it would never load for me, at all.
I think you're talking about Activation (where you call in, or use an online form).
Genuine is a downloaded tool that verifies that you've allowed yourself to be scanned to prove it. (Though it's been proven that WGA(Windows Genuine Advantage) is nothing more than intricate and difficult to remove Spyware.)
If you have an OEM computer (like an Alienware, Compaq, Dell, eMachine, HP, etc...) they give you what's known as a VLK (Volume Licensing Key) which means it's been preinstalled, activated, and set up for you. All you have to do is register with Windows, and setup the WGA.
Sounds to me like Best Buy is just screwin' people all around, and there's nary a tube of lube 'round.
NOTE: Realize that I am not a perfect Christian, nor do I profess to be. I apologize if anyone's ever offended by me, I'm not perfect. Don't hold my posts and opinions against other Christians.