key code is lost

[LES]

I purchased a computer that had Win XP installed . Now
the place where I bought the computer 1 1/2 years ago is
out of business. I want to reformat my computer but I do
not have the key code that came with the CD. I have the
original CD but the code is not with it nor is it on the
computer anywhere. Any suggestions??

[Ken Blake]

"LES" > wrote in message
...

> I purchased a computer that had Win XP installed . Now
> the place where I bought the computer 1 1/2 years ago is
> out of business. I want to reformat my computer but I do
> not have the key code that came with the CD. I have the
> original CD but the code is not with it nor is it on the
> computer anywhere. Any suggestions??


There are a couple of programs that will find the code on your
computer. The one I recommend is the freeware AIDA32, which also
gives lots of other useful info about your computer. Go to
http://www.aida32.hu/aida32.php

--
Ken Blake
Please reply to the newsgroup

[Harry Ohrn]

Go here and check How To Uncover Windows XP Product Key
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/repair_xp.htm

--

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


"LES" > wrote in message
...
> I purchased a computer that had Win XP installed . Now
> the place where I bought the computer 1 1/2 years ago is
> out of business. I want to reformat my computer but I do
> not have the key code that came with the CD. I have the
> original CD but the code is not with it nor is it on the
> computer anywhere. Any suggestions??

[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.

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

--
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"LES" > wrote in message
...
> I purchased a computer that had Win XP installed . Now
> the place where I bought the computer 1 1/2 years ago is
> out of business. I want to reformat my computer but I do
> not have the key code that came with the CD. I have the
> original CD but the code is not with it nor is it on the
> computer anywhere. Any suggestions??

[Perdita X. Dream]

LES wrote:
> I purchased a computer that had Win XP installed . Now
> the place where I bought the computer 1 1/2 years ago is
> out of business. I want to reformat my computer but I do
> not have the key code that came with the CD. I have the
> original CD but the code is not with it nor is it on the
> computer anywhere. Any suggestions??

The place where you bought it may no longer be trading but, if it's a major
brand (Dell/HP/Compaq/Sony) then you can still call them for assistance.

--
Perdita X. Dream

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