It is common to confuse these two terms, but they serve different roles in the activation process:
A numeric ID (often 42 or 48 digits) provided by Microsoft's activation servers or a telephone representative. This code is only generated after you have entered a valid product key and the wizard has verified your installation. How to Use the Activation Wizard to Get Your Code activation wizard office 2007 confirmation code
If internet activation fails (which is common for older software whose servers may be retired), you must use the method to receive your confirmation code. Activate Office 2007 - Microsoft Support It is common to confuse these two terms,
A 25-character alphanumeric code (e.g., XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX) that you enter during the initial installation. You can usually find this on a sticker on the CD case, the Certificate of Authenticity, or your original purchase email. Activate Office 2007 - Microsoft Support A 25-character