Can't access "Computer (My Computer)" Vista

[stratcat250]

After a validation lapse I haven't been able to access the "Computer" files on my laptop using Vista Home Basic. I have Dell Inspiron 6000 notebooks and I switched the hard drive from one to another machine. I got a validation error due to hardware changes and program uses where blocked or shut down. After re validating the OS I was able to reuse the machine except for access to My Computer and a couple of other programs. Has anyone else had this problem? This is the only computer I have that uses Vista and Googling it comes up empty.

[BertImmenschuh]

So far I've found it not easy to switch hardware like that when Vista has already been installed on one computer and Activated.

WinXP wasn't easy but could be done and have to do the Activation again due to the hardware changes and always when changing the motherboard.

In your case there's enough differences between one computer's identifying of hardware from the other that a re-install probably would be the next step.

With the OEM versions of WinXP and WinVista the OS has to remain with the computer it is first installed on, in the EULA/End User Licensing Agreement [Windows Explorer, Help, About] and legally cannot be moved to a different computer. The Retail version supposedly can be installed on a REPLACEMENT computer.

[stratcat250]

Thanks Bert, This is what I was afraid I would have to do. I have never really seen Windows shut down like this in XP. Usually it came right back after a proper validation.
The version I used was actually a retail version from Micro Center. Anyway I still have enough access to backup files so I guess I'll reinstall. Thanks again,

Bob