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Windows XP licence question

I have XP on my PC, I migrated the copy from my last computer after it fried the hard drive.
I don't have the COA sticker, as this was on the old case. I need to get the licence number because I want to reformat and reinstall, as I am having problems with my PC. The copy of Windows is genuine.

How can I get the licence number from my PC?

Comments

  • Regeneration
    Regeneration Posts: 135 Forumite
    This software will find it for you:
    http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder/
  • uktyler
    uktyler Posts: 872 Forumite
    Thank you, that was just what I was after, not only did if find my XP licence key, but also half of the keys for other software on my computer.
    A great little program.
  • gjchester
    gjchester Posts: 5,741 Forumite
    uktyler wrote: »
    I have XP on my PC, I migrated the copy from my last computer after it fried the hard drive.
    I don't have the COA sticker, as this was on the old case. I need to get the licence number because I want to reformat and reinstall, as I am having problems with my PC. The copy of Windows is genuine.

    How can I get the licence number from my PC?


    If you have no COA it's not legal in Microsoft's eyes, crazy as it sounds you are expected to keep the case in case you require the COA again. In addition if you got that copy of windows with the old PC rather than buying a retail copy in a shop again it';s not a legal copy. OEM copes are not licenced to be transferred across machines.
    Silly rules, after all you paid for the copy, but still the rules they set.
  • Inactive
    Inactive Posts: 14,509 Forumite
    Belarc Advisor will also give you information about your licence keys etc.

    http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

    Safe and secure.
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