Excel Product Key problem

I am trying to install Excel 2007, but can't get beyond the request for the product key because I keep getting the message that the key I have entered is incorrect. Because of the packaging the box in which the disc came was totally destroyed. I did manage to copy the key (I thought) manually, but somewhere I guess I made a mistake.

How can I get the key and install the software?

 

Would be unusual to have the product key displayed on shipping box. Have you checked all contents which came with the shipment. I have found then on the envelope the install disk is stored, setup/install manual, separate card within the shipment. If nothing, contact seller an explain your problem. Hopefully they recorded/track the product key in the order process. Seller / yourself may have to get MS involved.

UPDATE
Until this issue is resolved, keep ALL shipping containers / contents. Also, by providing what you think is product key, seller or MS may determine what product key should, could not be. Hopefully you have only ONE wrong alphanumeric.

 

It's ok. The type face on the box makes "8" look just like "B ", and that's what I typed.

The packaging was HORRIBLE.

 

"setup/install manual" wasn't included.

This is Excel 2007 - maybe earlier versions had more information.

I copied the key from the box and scotch-taped it to the back of the CD envelope. Now I'm going to copy that copy into my computer

 

Glad you were able to decipher the secret code.
8's, B's, 3's, 6's, and 9's are tricky, along with ..
O and 0
I and l and sometimes 1.

Safe storing Product keys.
Can never have to many ways to have them available.
When I have a install disc, I will create a backup CD and write product key / serial number on the disc. Also I keep encrypted files containing Product keys / Serial numbers stored on the Web via Gmail, Yahoo, your favorite Web email account. Off site storage for valuable info can be very handy when bad luck knocks on your door.

 

The font Microsoft uses for product keys has had people typing 8's instead of B's and B's instead of 8's for years. Evidently, they like the font...and the problems it creates...too much to change.

Like Dennis L, I write product keys on the disks (label side, of course) with a felt tipped pen. A Sharpie works the best. That way, as long as you have the disk, you'll have the product key.

You do need to remember to write the key down on a piece of paper before using the disk to install something, though. Some installs do not appreciate having the disk removed (to retrieve the key) before the install is finished.