cd_key

[hill_lhy]

I forgot my cd_key , how can i find it ?

[Doug Knox MS-MVP]

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml
--
Doug Knox, MS-MVP Windows XP/ Windows Smart Display
Win 95/98/Me/XP Tweaks and Fixes
http://www.dougknox.com
--------------------------------
Associate Expert
ExpertZone - http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
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"hill_lhy" > wrote in message
...
> I forgot my cd_key , how can i find it ?

[Bruce Chambers]

Greetings --

The Windows 25-character Product Key (required to perform the
installation) is stored somewhere 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 current Win2K installation is still functioning, you may
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. Also, if you did originally register the OEM
installation with Microsoft they might be able to help, although
they're under no obligation to do so; All support is the sole
responsibility of the OEM.

Bruce Chambers

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----
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having both at once. -- RAH


"hill_lhy" > wrote in message
...
> I forgot my cd_key , how can i find it ?