PDA

View Full Version : WinXp Pro, I cant locate the key code.


Rudder
December 5th 03, 12:38 PM
Is there a way to find the key code on my computer or in a file on the disk.
I want to reload XP but cant find my key code. I am asking this before i
format my hard drive.

Thanks

Nicholas
December 5th 03, 12:38 PM
Rudder --

Retrieve your XP CD key
http://michaelstevenstech.com/ViewKeyXP.htm

[Courtesy of Michael Stevens, MS-MVP]


--=20
Nicholas

-------------------------------------------------------------------------=
--------------

"Rudder" > wrote in message:
...

| Is there a way to find the key code on my computer or in a file on the =
disk.
| I want to reload XP but cant find my key code. I am asking this before =
i
| format my hard drive.
|=20
| Thanks
|=20
|

Bruce Chambers
December 5th 03, 12:38 PM
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 AIDA32
Enterprise from http://www.aida32.hu/aida32.php or ViewKeyXP from
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/repair_xp.htm 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 whomever sold you the
OS; 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

--
Help us help you:
http://dts-l.org/goodpost.htm
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

You can have peace. Or you can have freedom. Don't ever count on
having both at once. -- RAH


"Rudder" > wrote in message
...
> Is there a way to find the key code on my computer or in a file on
the disk.
> I want to reload XP but cant find my key code. I am asking this
before i
> format my hard drive.
>
> Thanks
>
>

Google