Product Key

[caln8tve]

Trying to reload the Windows XP operating system disk.
The product key provided appears to have expired.
Contacted Dell where computer was purchased and they told
me to contact microsoft to assist me with my expired key.
I need new key to re-install software.

Thanks,
Brian

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Brian;
If it came from Dell, it is OEM.
Dell is the only source for that type of support.
However the Windows Product Keys do not expire.

Perhaps you mean it will not activate over the internet?
If so choose the option to activate by phone.

That may not be possible if it is a non Dell motherboard.
If that is the case, you may need to buy Windows to get it to install.

Otherwise post back exact details of what is happening and when.

 

[Bruce Chambers]

Greetings --

Product Keys do _not_ "expire."

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, and someone has removed/destroyed the
label, you should contact you 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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