OEM product key

[mark.jmk]

I purchased xp oem but lost the product key (don't ask!!!). Is there
anyway you can retrieve the number. I purchased it from Genstar and
they tell me they can't help and I need to buy the software again.

 

[Juan]

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

 

[BruceM]

Depends if you've got it installed yet or is it still in your hand? (the cd)

 

[Juan]

I understood he had it installed. Guess I read and responded too fast!

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

 

[Bruce Chambers]

I purchased xp oem but lost the product key (don't ask!!!). Is there
anyway you can retrieve the number. I purchased it from Genstar and
they tell me they can't help and I need to buy the software again.

The Product Key is not stored on the installation CD in any way, shape,
or form. 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 Belarc
Advisor from http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html 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 the computer's
manufacturer; 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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both at once. - RAH

 

[Mark W]

Hi Bruce, itsa not installed yet, I just have the disc

 

[Juan]

It should be possible to get a replacement key from Microsoft with your
proof of purchase.

Lost the product key of an original XP Professional Setup CD
http://forumz.tomshardware.com/software/lost-product-key-original-XP-Profess
ional-Setup-CD-ftopict29737.html

Replacement of CD or Product Keys.
To replace a CD or Product Key, you must contact PSS. To locate the
appropriate phone number for your product, visit the following Microsoft Web
site:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;EN-US;CNTACTMS
(http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;en-us;cntactms)