Finding XP product key

cats_five · 9 Nov 2013 at 19:13

I have an old Dell PC which needs reinstalling, but the label with the XP key is damaged - I can read the first three groups of characters, and three of the last group so no chance of using it.

Is there any software which can extract the key from the software on the PC?

Beans on toast Dave · 9 Nov 2013 at 19:16

magic jellybean

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder/

kirbz · 10 Nov 2013 at 11:32

The above method will only work if it has been reinstalled before. It will be using a generic oem key that may not work.

Call ms, they will ask for you to send a pic by email and they will send you a replacement. I've had this before.

Regards
Kirbz

cats_five · 10 Nov 2013 at 15:59

I have no idea if it's been reinstalled before, but I can certainly send MS a photo of the damaged label.

cats_five · 10 Nov 2013 at 16:01

Oh dear. From the MS website:

How to obtain a replacement product key
If the software came preinstalled on your computer, please contact the manufacturer of your computer to obtain a replacement product key.

And when I originally tried contacting Dell it told me there was some sort of 'zone' problem when I tried to get the email address for the service tag.

Idleman · 11 Nov 2013 at 11:18

I use Belarc, not only will it show your OS key but any other software that needs a key to activate it.

http://www.belarc.com/

kirbz · 11 Nov 2013 at 11:33

I know what it says on the website but I have had this happen before, I rang MS, they emailed me asking to take a picture and reply. Within a few days they sent a replacement key to me.

I can only go on the experience I have had.

Regards
Kirbz

Scougar · 11 Nov 2013 at 11:40

Annoying... I removed an XP product key changer from an old USB key I had just two days ago.. wish I'd seen this thread before so I could have helped you out