[EricB]

back up your data (music, pictures, etc.) to cd, dvd or another hdd.

reboot the pc. hit f10 when it first boot up. follow the directions for a full system recovery. I would pick the destructive method. it will return the computer to the time that you first bought it from the store.

[buzza24]

A problem that you could be experiencing also is that you have hav purchase the software legally but the store, possibly out of laziness, might have used a of-the-net key for install.

This is not that impossible as I have had a few machines come in from "a reputable dealer" where they have used a dodgy key but supplied the legit OEM slip and everything.

Check the installed CD-key using Magic Jellybean, and compare it against the one you have been supplied. If thier not a match, then you have been ripped. If they are, then you're right and Microsoft is messing around with you.

[Osiris]

MS is not messing around with youuu, why would they? They get them keys so they dont have to buy them so then they pass the problem to you.