lost license key

[Guest]

Hi,

We managed to lose the license key for our new Windows
XP. Whom should I contact at microsoft about getting a
replacement and what do I have to do to prove I've
already purchased a copy ?

Cheers,

Al

 

[Rob Schneider]

Hi,

We managed to lose the license key for our new Windows
XP. Whom should I contact at microsoft about getting a
replacement and what do I have to do to prove I've
already purchased a copy ?

Cheers,

Al

In the paper documenation that came with XP, there is contact details
applicable to your country.

(If your XP came with computer, look for a sticker on the case somewhere).

 

[Rick \Nutcase\ Rogers]

Hi Al,

If all you need to do is recover the Product Key used for installation, try
these:

This utility works for retail versions:
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/ViewKeyXP.exe

For OEM versions, download and install Aida32 from:
http://www.aida32.hu/aida-download.php?bit=32

You want the Personal Operating System version. The key is under OS
information.

Or, try this one which just gives you the key:
http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

--
Best of Luck,

Rick Rogers aka "Nutcase" MS-MVP - Win9x
Windows isn't rocket science! That's my other hobby!

Associate Expert - WinXP - Expert Zone

 

[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 holographic label that the PC
manufacturer is supposed to affix to the exterior of the PC case, or
on the bottom of a laptop. The Product Key is _not_ stored on, nor is
it in any way extractable from, the installation CD.

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
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. The OEM would also be the only one who could issue you a
new Product Key.


Bruce Chambers

--
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