XP Keys don't match

  • Thread starter Thread starter Bob
  • Start date Start date
B

Bob

I downloaded a XP Key Finder utility. The results do not match the sticker
on my laptop. The laptop was purchased new. Should I be concerned?

Thanks
Bob
 
No. The PC manufacturer uses their own, one-time,
Product Key for the initial installation for use with
their master image. That particular Product Key is of
no use to you.

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows Shell/User

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

:

| I downloaded a XP Key Finder utility. The results do not match the sticker
| on my laptop. The laptop was purchased new. Should I be concerned?
|
| Thanks
| Bob
 
You probably shouldn't be concerned if it was a pre-installed OEM
version of XP. The results of key finders don't match stickers on any
pre-installed OEM versions I have come across. The Optima I am using
at this precise time fits that category.

....Alan
 
Carey said:
No. The PC manufacturer uses their own, one-time,
Product Key for the initial installation for use with
their master image. That particular Product Key is of
no use to you.
Click to expand...

Are they actually valid keys, anyway? If not, then why bother included
such stickers in the first place?
 
The key the tool displays in this case is of no value for installation..
The Product Key affixed to the computer is part of your license and proof
the license is legitimate.
 
yawnmoth said:
Are they actually valid keys, anyway? If not, then why bother included
such stickers in the first place?
Click to expand...

The product key(s) attached to the computer case should be
valid for the Microsoft product(s) sold along with the computer.
They can be used for re-installation or responding to a request
for validation when updating. Moreover, the keys also represent
proof of ownership.
 
Bob said:
I downloaded a XP Key Finder utility. The results do not match the sticker
on my laptop. The laptop was purchased new. Should I be concerned?

Thanks
Bob
Click to expand...


No, that's normal.

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.


--

Bruce Chambers

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