lost oem code

  • Thread starter Thread starter Susie
  • Start date Start date
S

Susie

My computer "crashed" and has missing/corrupted files. I
tried to reinstall windows (Home Ed.) but lost/misplaced
the OEM Code. How do I obtain another one? I called the
computer manf. but was told to contact MS for help. I
can be reached via email at: (e-mail address removed)

Thanks in advance,
Susie
 
Microsoft does not support OEM versions of Windows XP.
The company that sold you the OEM version has complete
support responsibility. Contact the company again.

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

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


| My computer "crashed" and has missing/corrupted files. I
| tried to reinstall windows (Home Ed.) but lost/misplaced
| the OEM Code. How do I obtain another one? I called the
| computer manf. but was told to contact MS for help. I
| can be reached via email at: (e-mail address removed)
|
| Thanks in advance,
| Susie
 
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
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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