Also couldnt she just phone Microsoft and get an activation code from them? I thought I read you could do that in the US (maybe other places as well). Not sure how much it costs though.

And also are you sure the activation code isnt on a sticker somewhere on the machine (like laptops have).

http://www.amazon.com/Windows-Premium-64...=I2W7YWLNEH630X

This is the one I have finally decided to buy.

Looks fine, Lexxy.

By the time you try to call Microsoft and go through that rigamarole, you might as well just buy a copy. Since someone built this computer for lexxy, there won't be a sticker on the case unless she put it there. I never put my stickers on my cases either - although I probably should. And since this guy put on a pirated version, there probably isn't a valid number anyway.

That will be fine, lexxy. mj2c has a good suggestion - put the validation code sticker on the case so you will never lose it.

I tried to find a Microsoft site where they're selling product keys, but all I could find was one for Windows 8. The "Shop" link on this site
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Get-a-new-Windows-7-product-key
simply takes you here
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/buy

No mention of Windows 7 that I see.
You'd have to phone them up, like Draclvr says.

Phone number is here

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950929

Did you try the phone based activation in Windows 7 ? When you try to activate and it says it cannot click on the Microsoft phone support option and use the automated system. it will ask you to speak or enter with the phone key pad a series of numbers in blocks. When the system accepts these numbers the system will ask you many computers are activated with the key. Always choose 0 and most likely it will allow you to activate windows. I have had to do this when replacing mother boards and processors on both windows 7 and windows 8.
This will take only about 5 min to do

An update for everyone who has help me through this drama. My tech called me last night and said my computer is fixed and ready for pick up. I wll be back in the gaming mode by Christmas. Just wanted to say thanks to all.

Thanks for letting us know, Lexxy.
Glad you'll have your computer by Christmas.

Wonderful news, lexxy!

Good deal, glad you got it resolved -

That's good to hear, Lexxy. If you would, let us know what the tech did to straighten out your computer.

Sorry that it took me so long to get back, holiday madness you know, but actually all he did was install a legit copy of Windows 7 and presto I am back in business. Once again I can't thank one and all for your advice and support.

That's good to hear, lexxy!

That's real good to hear Lexxy. I hope you gave him an earful about the first guy. Be nice if enough people know he isn't to be trusted building computers.