Press Windows Key + R , type slui 04 , and hit enter. This forces the Phone Activation interface. Select your country (USA tends to be the most automated).
Disconnect the Ethernet. This forces the installer to let you skip the key entry (or use the generic key above). product key for windows vista home premium better
You cannot activate old Vista RTM (no service pack) easily. You need SP2. Download the standalone update Windows6.0-KB948465-X86 (or x64) from a reliable archive like MajorGeeks. Press Windows Key + R , type slui 04 , and hit enter