0x800703e6 - license error

i have used my Toshiba laptop for over 5 months. i have downloaded windows updates with no issue. never have i had an issue with my win xp copy being validated.

yesterday morning when i booted it, it will not let me log on.

when i tries to i get a pop up that says.

Windows Product Activation

A problem is reventing Windows from accurately checking the license for this computer. Error Code: 0x800703e6.

I logged on in Safe mode but it will not let me log on in Safe Mode with networking, same error.

I can only go in plain Safe mode.

I attempted a restore in Safe mode, no progress.

I have not installed any new software or hardware lately.

HELP. I am very frustrated right now. i do not have the win xp install cd, this was a gift. i do have a toshiba disk but i do not want to remove all the stuff on my hard drive.

when i pop the disk in, it warns me it will wipe it clean. i do not have a back up of my laptop.

HELP. HELP.

 

This may help: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/914232 although it doesn't mention error code 0x800703e6 (0x800703e7 is close but not the same).

Suggested fixes for error codes not listed are shown about 3/4 down the page.

 

i uninstalled windows service pk 2 and VOILA, i am back in!

i will do a back up but do what next. not quite sure where to go from here! any ideas