Bryce said:
I bought a legal version of windows xp home edition, and installed it on my
custom built computer 2 years ago. Recently I decided to put all my
games/software into a cd book, and use a lable maker to print off and stick
them to the sleeves. But I must of misread it when making the lable because
now its saying its not the correct cd key. Im trying to install XP on my
other computer.
Assuming a retail license (OEM licenses are not legitimately
transferable), simply remove WinXP from the computer it is currently on
and then install it on the new computer. If it's been more than 120
days since you last activated that specific Product Key, the you'll most
likely be able to activate via the Internet without problem. If it's
been less, you might have to make a 5 minute phone call.
Here are the facts pertaining to activation:
Piracy Basics - Microsoft Product Activation
http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/basics/activation/
Windows Product Activation (WPA)
http://www.aumha.org/a/wpa.htm
So is there any way I can search my computer for the cd key?
I think I registered it online if that would help. Thank you in advance.
The Windows 25-character Product Key (required to perform the
installation) is stored on the CD packaging on a brightly colored
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.
The Product Key is not stored on the installation CD in any way, shape,
or form.
To recover a lost Product Key:
If your system still runs, you should be able to use Belarc Advisor
from
http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html 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 the computer's
manufacturer; 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
Help us help you:
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safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. -Benjamin Franklin
Many people would rather die than think; in fact, most do. -Bertrum Russell
