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Product key

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by evileyejoe

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Is there a way to get the product key off of the computer? Is it stored anywhere? The reason I am asking is because my case with the product key sticker on it is missing the middle 5 numbers. The orange part of the sticker is torn off there.

If not, will Microsoft give me another if I prove I bought it? What number would I call?

thanks for your help

8 replies

by thechas

It depends on the version of Windows that you have.

I know that at least 9X and Me, you can extract the information from the registry.

The simplest way is to run Belarc Advisor www.belarc.com
Among other information, will be the serial numberand product key.

I have never had to try it myself, but I have been told that MS will help you if you can prove you have a vaild copy of the software.
I would start with the main support number for your OS.

Chas

by craighassan

In NT:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProductId

You should also be able to search the registry in 2k to find it.

by evileyejoe

Yeah sorry... I thought by posting in the Windows 2000 section that you would know which OS I'm talking about. 2000 of course. Professional.

thanks

by dmiles

Microsoft did away with the product key registry location upon release of W2K
Check the Microsoft site for support to get info on how to contact
There are also previous post on this topic in TechRepublic usin gthe search box and typing in W2K product key

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