Lost key

[Michael]

Hi Folks: A long story short. I installed XP over
Millenium lo those many years ago. My computer crashed
requiring re-installation of XP. I cannot find the key
code needed to unlock the installation. Does anyone know
what I can do to avoid purchasing a new XP program?

 

[Mike Hall]

If it is a retail version, contact Microsoft..

 

[Ken Blake]

In

Hi Folks: A long story short. I installed XP over
Millenium lo those many years ago. My computer crashed
requiring re-installation of XP. I cannot find the key
code needed to unlock the installation. Does anyone know
what I can do to avoid purchasing a new XP program?

If you can get into XP, you can find the Product key with any of
these:
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/ViewKeyXP.exe

http://www.aida32.hu/aida-download.php?bit=32

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

 

[Crusty \(-: Old B@stard :-\)]

At this point no! But you could have retrieved the install key prior to
starting the re-installation. Now you will have to pay a nominal amount to
get a new key.

 

[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 or ViewKeyXP from
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/repair_xp.htm 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
OS; 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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