Missing Product Key

[Legitimate W2k CD in hand]

My dog ate my W2k CD case with the Product Key... Really!

OK - not really. However, I purchased a PC from an
individual. The PC had Windows 2000 loaded, and it came
with a legitimate W2k CD (not a copy). I am trying to
reinstall W2k to give the PC a fresh start. However, the
CD case was not given to me, and the Product Key was
nowhere to be found. The seller says he gave me
everything he had.

What are my legal options? Will Microsoft be able to
supply me with a (new?) Key? What kind of proof of
ownership will MS want? This PC is for a home-based
business so dredging up a possibly less-than-legal Key off
of a newsgroup is completely out of the question. (Even
if it was for a non-business PC, it would not be an
option.)

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Charles]

If the seller has purchase a OEM version of Windows 2000,
then you can find the OEM Sticker on your case and you'll
find the Product Key. If it was a Retail or OLP license,
then you will have to contact Microsoft for help.

Charles

 

[Geoffw]

if the original w2K install is still on system magic jelly
bean will find the key

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