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Windows 2000 Server CD - no CD key

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7 replies

by dana803 1 view

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My company was offloading some old PCs and servers to the dump. I grabbed a Windows 2000 Server OEM CD, but it doesn't have the cd key with it. It wants the 25-digit cd key, 5 blocks of 5 characters. I'm trying to install it on my "old" computer at home for education and hands-on experience since I'm studying for the Windows 2000 server exam (70-215). Is there a way to legally get a cd key for this cd so I can install Windows 2000 server on that computer? If not, any alternative and cheap (if not free) ideas to get this installed?

7 replies

by timwalsh

Assuming you are placing emphasis on "legally", please don't follow the recommendations from from answer 1. The site recommended is a crack site (as the name suggests).

Usually the product keys for OEM software are on a sticker on the side of the computer that the software was installed on. If that computer has alread gone to the dump, you're out of luck there.

Another option is to get the free 120-day Advanced Server Evaluation Edition directly from Microsoft.

by dana803

I already have the evaluation CD. I may end up using it if I can't find another way. I was trying to get around that.

by thechas

The CD key is usually on the Certificate of Authenticity.

A 'legal' license is nearly the same cost as a full OEM version.

I would (discretely) check with the IT department, and see if you can get a license to go along with the copy of W2K.Otherwise, check some of the license only links that come up when you do a price check for W2K at www.pricewatch.com

Chas
Chas

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