Certificate Numbers

[jaynesguy]

We have moved a couple of times and have lost the
Certificate of Authenticity for our Windows XP program.
We are having several problems and want to reinstall XP
but obviously need these numbers. Is there anyway to get
these numbers from Microsoft or any other source.

Thanks

Les

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

If your computer is still operational:

Retrieve your Windows XP CD key
http://michaelstevenstech.com/ViewKeyXP.htm

[Courtesy of Michael Stevens, MS-MVP]


If your computer is not operational:

How to Replace Lost, Broken, or Missing Microsoft Software or Hardware
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;[ln];326246

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User

Be Smart! Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


| We have moved a couple of times and have lost the
| Certificate of Authenticity for our Windows XP program.
| We are having several problems and want to reinstall XP
| but obviously need these numbers. Is there anyway to get
| these numbers from Microsoft or any other source.
|
| Thanks
|
| Les

 

[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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