PLEASE READ FIRST

Initial Startup Guide for Windows Systems

Thank you for your purchase. Please follow these steps when starting up your Windows computer for the first time.

  • If you purchased a laptop, ensure that your AC Adapter is connected before you power on the computer for the first time.
  • You will need to enter your Microsoft Refurbisher Product Key into the Windows Activation Screen.
  • The Product Key COA sticker is found either under your laptop or in the case of desktops on the top or side.
  • Please ensure that the label states refurbished.

Your product key will look similar to the examples below:

New COA

Old COA


**Please double check each letter to ensure accuracy. When entering the Product Key, it is a common to mistake certain characters such as the letter “B” and the number “8”.



Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find my product key?

Depending on the model of your computer, the product key may be located on the bottom, under the battery or on the back of the tower. The product key will have the name of the refurbishing company. Examples:

New COA

Old COA

How do I activate my Windows 7 Product?

Refurbished units do NOT come pre-activated because of stipulations from Microsoft. To activate your product key, use the following steps:

  • Click the start button
  • Right-click “Computer” and select Properties
  • Scroll to the bottom under Windows Activation and enter your product key

How can I do a System Restore myself?

Yes, follow these steps:

  • Turn on the computer
  • Press F8 at the splash screen (the screen that shows HP, Dell, IBM, Lenovo, etc)
  • Select “Repair Your Computer” and follow the onscreen prompts

My computer won’t turn on?

Make sure your power cord or AC adaptor are plugged into a working outlet. If you continue having problems, please contact us here: http://shivnet.com/index.php/support-form/

I have a problem with the battery, what do I do?

Due to high volume of sales, batteries are NOT covered under warranty. However, we do offer free shipping on competitively priced new replacement batteries to existing customers.
To order a new battery, please contact us here: sales@shivnet.com

I am getting an error message that says my OS is not authentic, what do I do?

All Windows products must first be activated. Depending on the model of your computer the product key may be located on the bottom of the machine, under the battery, or on the back of the machine.

My AC adaptor is broken, how do I get a new one?

Please contact us at http://shivnet.com/index.php/support-form/ for assistance.

My laptop/tablet cannot connect to Wifi, what do I do?

Depending on the model laptop you have, you may need to either turn the wifi switch or press the wifi button so that it is in the on position. Additionally, you may need to load default settings from the BIOS.
If you continue to have issues connecting to wifi, contact us here: http://shivnet.com/index.php/support-form/

What does my warranty cover?

All STS Systems computers include a limited warranty on parts and labor; see our warranty page for details: http://shivnet.com/index.php/warranty/

If I have a problem who pays for shipping my computer back?

If a unit is Dead on Arrival, STS systems will cover provide a free return shipping label. In all other situations, the purchaser will be responsible for any shipping expense.

How do I know if my warranty is still in effect?

Warranties are active for 90 days from the invoiced date on your order.

Can I get live help?

Unfortunately no; we are constantly busy sourcing new products and shipping orders. The best way to reach the right person to help you is through our support page: http://shivnet.com/index.php/support-form/

There are dents in my computer, can I return it?

No. STS Systems is a refurbisher following guidelines and standards imposed by Microsoft and the refurbishing community. Every care has been taken to provide you a computer that functions to Microsoft standards. As a refurbished unit, there may be occasional minor aesthetic imperfections that have no bearing on the performance of the computer.

What does “refurbished” mean?

Refurbished: This computer was previously leased by a business. At the end of the lease the product is turned in, tested, repaired (if needed), and cleaned, to be resold as a Microsoft Authorized Refurbished Computer. Having been previously used, there may be occasional minor aesthetic imperfections on the unit that have no bearing on the performance of the unit. Refurbished products are tested to be in fully working condition before being sold.

Will STS Systems buy my computer?

STS Systems does not purchase single units at this time. If you have 10 or more computers to sell, you may contact us at sales@shivnet.com for an estimated bid. If you accept, we ask that the units be shipped to us for a physical evaluation and a subsequent formal bid will be presented. If approved, we will send you a check.

Does STS Systems sell parts?

Yes. Many parts will be available through our online stores, however you can contact us directly at: sales@shivnet.com

Can I purchase directly from STS?

If you are a business or consumer who would like to purchase custom units or in bulk, contact us at: sales@shivnet.com

What is a MAR?

A “MAR” is a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher. MARs are able to supply computers with genuine Microsoft software and license pre-installed to businesses, consumers, and nonprofits.