If you are unable to validate

If you are unable to validate, you may have been a victim of counterfeit software. You may be able to remedy that situation by following several steps, including filling out a Piracy report so Microsoft can have a record of the transaction and determine if additional action is warranted.

Also, for a limited time, if you submit a qualifying counterfeit Windows compact disk (CD) that meets certain requirements (high quality counterfeit, hologram, for example) and a proof of purchase, Microsoft will send you a genuine copy of Windows for free. An electronic license key, which will provide genuine status right away, will also be available for qualifying systems.
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/secu...e/genuine.mspx