authenticity number-is it located on the computer anywhere?

[Guest]

I need to reinstall the Windows XP software, I have the diskette but cannot find the authenticity certificate. Is the number located anywhere else on the computer or whereever??

 

[Guest]

Not that I'm aware of. The Windows XP authenticity code is for the disc, not the computer.

 

[Steve C. Ray]

If XP came preinstalled on your computer then there should be a small
sticker some where on the case with your Product Key. If you installed XP
yourself, the Key is on a sticker in the shrink wrap if you used a OEM
version; or inside the cardboard folder that the CD came in if it was a
retail version. If you installed a retail version and the computer will boot
into Windows you can find the Product Key by going to www.aida32.hu and
downloading AIDA32.

--
Steve C. Ray
(Replace "mail" with "36db"

I need to reinstall the Windows XP software, I have the diskette but

cannot find the authenticity certificate. Is the number located anywhere
else on the computer or whereever??

 

[Bruce Chambers]

Greetings --

The Windows 25-character Product Key (required to perform the
installation) is stored on the CD packaging on a bright orange sticker
that says "Do not lose this number." If it was an OEM (factory
installed) license, it's stored on a label that the PC manufacturer
affixed to the exterior of the PC case, or on the bottom of a laptop.

To recover a lost Product Key:

If your system still runs, you should be able to use AIDA32
Enterprise from http://www.aida32.hu/aida32.php to find the Product
Key. (If you have a factory-installed OEM license, and haven't since
reinstalled the OS, the revealed Product Key is probably of the drive
image used at the factory and not _your_ specific Product Key;
therefore, it probably cannot be -- and definitely should not be --
used for a re-installation.)

If it was a retail license and you have proof of purchase:

How to Replace Lost, Broken, or Missing Microsoft Software or Hardware
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;326246

If it was an OEM license, you should contact whomever sold you the
PC; although very few manufacturers/vendors keep records of the
Product Keys they've sold, it's worth a try before you have to buy a
new license.


Bruce Chambers

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