Installing Where is the product key?

[Martin McPherson]

I am trying to install a Windows XP upgrade as a fresh
install on the same hard drive as the Windows ME already
on my computer. When I begin the installation process, I
am asked (I think) for a 25 digit product key. I don't
know what that is or where to find it.

Microsoft's website tells me where to look on my
computer system, but that will not work because I have not
installed Windows XP yet. I have a validly purchased
Windows XP Home upgrade CD, and also the box with a
sticker on it, but not the CD case (which I've lost
somehow). Must I purchase a new upgrade just because I
lost the CD box?

Thanks anyone for help.

[Mike Hall]

Look for the box..

--
History is only the past if we choose to do nothing about it..

"Martin McPherson" > wrote in message
...
> I am trying to install a Windows XP upgrade as a fresh
> install on the same hard drive as the Windows ME already
> on my computer. When I begin the installation process, I
> am asked (I think) for a 25 digit product key. I don't
> know what that is or where to find it.
>
> Microsoft's website tells me where to look on my
> computer system, but that will not work because I have not
> installed Windows XP yet. I have a validly purchased
> Windows XP Home upgrade CD, and also the box with a
> sticker on it, but not the CD case (which I've lost
> somehow). Must I purchase a new upgrade just because I
> lost the CD box?
>
> Thanks anyone for help.

[cimex]

When you buy the $130 XP upgrade, you get $0.50 disk, and a $129.50 label.



"Mike Hall" > wrote in message
...
> Look for the box..
>
> --
> History is only the past if we choose to do nothing about it..
>
> "Martin McPherson" > wrote in message
> ...
> > I am trying to install a Windows XP upgrade as a fresh
> > install on the same hard drive as the Windows ME already
> > on my computer. When I begin the installation process, I
> > am asked (I think) for a 25 digit product key. I don't
> > know what that is or where to find it.
> >
> > Microsoft's website tells me where to look on my
> > computer system, but that will not work because I have not
> > installed Windows XP yet. I have a validly purchased
> > Windows XP Home upgrade CD, and also the box with a
> > sticker on it, but not the CD case (which I've lost
> > somehow). Must I purchase a new upgrade just because I
> > lost the CD box?
> >
> > Thanks anyone for help.
>
>

[Bruce Chambers]

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.


Bruce Chambers

--
Help us help you:
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having both at once. -- RAH


"Martin McPherson" > wrote in message
...
> I am trying to install a Windows XP upgrade as a fresh
> install on the same hard drive as the Windows ME already
> on my computer. When I begin the installation process, I
> am asked (I think) for a 25 digit product key. I don't
> know what that is or where to find it.
>
> Microsoft's website tells me where to look on my
> computer system, but that will not work because I have not
> installed Windows XP yet. I have a validly purchased
> Windows XP Home upgrade CD, and also the box with a
> sticker on it, but not the CD case (which I've lost
> somehow). Must I purchase a new upgrade just because I
> lost the CD box?
>
> Thanks anyone for help.

[Harry Ohrn]

If you have proof of purchase you might be able to get a new product key by
contacting Microsoft. Take this link and scroll to the bottom of the page
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;326246

--

Harry Ohrn MS-MVP [Shell\User]
www.webtree.ca/windowsxp


"Martin McPherson" > wrote in message
...
> I am trying to install a Windows XP upgrade as a fresh
> install on the same hard drive as the Windows ME already
> on my computer. When I begin the installation process, I
> am asked (I think) for a 25 digit product key. I don't
> know what that is or where to find it.
>
> Microsoft's website tells me where to look on my
> computer system, but that will not work because I have not
> installed Windows XP yet. I have a validly purchased
> Windows XP Home upgrade CD, and also the box with a
> sticker on it, but not the CD case (which I've lost
> somehow). Must I purchase a new upgrade just because I
> lost the CD box?
>
> Thanks anyone for help.

[Wesley VogelX]

There is no case, just a four-fold cardboard folder with a sponge deal to
hold the CD. On the back of this green cardboard folder is an orange sticker,
above the printing; "Don't Lose This Product Key!", is the Product Key.


"Martin McPherson" > wrote in message
...
> I am trying to install a Windows XP upgrade as a fresh
> install on the same hard drive as the Windows ME already
> on my computer. When I begin the installation process, I
> am asked (I think) for a 25 digit product key. I don't
> know what that is or where to find it.
>
> Microsoft's website tells me where to look on my
> computer system, but that will not work because I have not
> installed Windows XP yet. I have a validly purchased
> Windows XP Home upgrade CD, and also the box with a
> sticker on it, but not the CD case (which I've lost
> somehow). Must I purchase a new upgrade just because I
> lost the CD box?
>
> Thanks anyone for help.