no product key number

  • Thread starter Thread starter Anthony
  • Start date Start date
A

Anthony

I just recently moved and lost my product key number to my
windows 2000 disk. what do I do about getting a number so
that I can install it?
 
If it was a retail copy and you have proof of purchase, call Microsoft. If
it was an OEM/bundled copy, contact the hardware mfr. - they may or may not
help you.

If you are merely reinstalling, and have a working/bootable W2k already that
used this CD key, try www.magicaljellybean.com and check out KeyFinder.
 
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 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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