Lost Key code for Win XP Pro

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jazzz
  • Start date Start date
J

Jazzz

I bought the full WinXP Pro and installed it on my
computer. I haven't regestered it but did activate it the
day it was installed. When I first installed the software,
there was a key code I had to type in. It was on a small
piece of paper and had lots of shinny hologram stuff all
over it from what I remember. I was out of town last week
and my wife came in and cleaned up my office desk and I
believe she "cleaned up" that little piece with the code
on it.

It's not a problem now since the software is installed and
activated. My concern is if something crashs and I have to
reinstall I won't have my key code. Is there a way I can
get a new one?? I have the cd disk and store regester tape
showing my purchace.

Any help with this would be greatly appreciated.
 
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 holographic label that the PC
manufacturer is supposed to affix to the exterior of the PC case, or
on the bottom of a laptop. The Product Key is _not_ stored on, nor is
it in any way extractable from, the installation CD.

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 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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Help us help you:



You can have peace. Or you can have freedom. Don't ever count on
having both at once. -- RAH
 
Thank you very much for the help with this. The software
you suggested gave me the key code number I needed. Quite
interestingly enough, it also has a ton other info I don't
know how to use but am sure having fun looking at as well.
 
Greetings --

You're welcome.

Bruce Chambers

--
Help us help you:



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