Product Key

  • Thread starter Thread starter D. C.
  • Start date Start date
D

D. C.

I wanted to ask this before calling microsoft(and paying
$35) and having them tell me they can't do anything about
this.

I need to reinstall Windows XP on my computer but have
lost the product key during one of my moves in the last
couple of years. I can't check windows for it as I had to
install a new HD because the old one crashed.

Anyway my question is....will Microsoft be able to give me
my product key(I registered XP when I first installed it)
if I call or am I SOL and need to purchase another copy of
XP.

Thanks,
D.C.
 
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 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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