Product Key

• Many installation-related problems with Windows Vista stem from a person forgetting to input the product key. The product key is a multidigit code that notifies your operating system that it is legally purchased and not pirated. It is found in the documentation that came packaged in the box with the Windows Vista installation discs. To enter a product key after installation has already been complete, right-click on the "My Computer" icon on your desktop and select "Properties." Next scroll down to the bottom of the page and select "Change Product Key." Enter the key into this screen and select the "OK" button.
  
  

Installation Freezes

• If installation of Windows Vista is taking longer than expected or has frozen altogether, it is probably because the installation disc is damaged in some way. Dust, dirt or scratches on the data side of the disc can prevent your drive from reading it completely, which can cause installation to lock up halfway through. Remove the disc from the drive and attempt to clean it with a dry, smooth cloth. Put the disc back in your drive and perform the installation again.
  
  

Drivers

• If certain peripheral devices like mice, keyboards, joysticks and printers (among others) stop working immediately after installing Windows Vista, it is because their drivers are out of date. The driver is the small computer program that tells your device how to coexist with your operating system. Go to the manufacturer's website of each product that is no longer working, search for your specific product and download and install any updated drivers that may be available.