As I mentioned, I have an activation code that hopefully should work it's just that I can't get the manual registration window to come up with the specific key combination that is supposed to bring it up.

Hello there, Chris.

You can use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to fix the potential issues related to the validation code screen appearing.

Please note that QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2008 is not fully compatible with Windows 11, which is likely why it isn't opening. While we can try some troubleshooting steps to get it working again, these steps may not fully resolve the issue due to the compatibility limitations. For a permanent solution, I recommend upgrading to a newer version of QBDT that supports Windows 11.

That said, let's start by running the Quick Fix My Program tool from the QuickBooks Tools Hub. If you don’t have the Tools Hub installed, you’ll need to set it up first. Here’s how:

1. Close QuickBooks.
2. Download the most recent version (1.6.0.8) of the QuickBooks Tool Hub. Please save the file somewhere you can easily find it (like your Downloads folder or your Windows desktop). Note: If you previously installed Tool Hub, you can check which version you have by selecting the Home tab. The version will be at the bottom.
3. Open the file you downloaded (QuickBooksToolHub.exe).
4. Follow the on-screen steps to install and agree to the terms and conditions.
5. Once the installation is complete, double-click the icon on your Windows desktop to open the tool hub.

Next, follow these steps to run the Quick Fix My Program tool:

1. In the QuickBooks Tools Hub, select Program Problems.
2. Select Quick Fix my Program.
3. Start QuickBooks Desktop and open your data file.

If the issue continues, proceed with the next steps in this article, starting with Solution 3: Run the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool from the Tool Hub.

For more detailed instructions on what to do if you're not prompted to enter your validation code, please refer to this article: Fix activation, license, and product numbers issues.

If you have additional questions or concerns, feel free to leave a comment below.

This process works except for the last step. While I have my original license number, I do not have a validation code.  So, I still can't use the software I bought and paid for.

They reserve the right to refuse to generate a validation code. This is part of the EULA. You should contact Fiat Lux to upgrade to a newer, non-subscription license.