Windows Product Key

bob_man_uk

they usually wont give you anything and say you have to buy a new copy, same with people who misplace system discs. pay for a new set.

though i do remember a list going round a while ago of product keys that manufacturers use, i cant remember if its for XP or vista though... anyone know about this?

and before you all jump on me no it wasnt ILLEGAL serial keys... all manufacturers used the same key and the list was floating about, i just cant remember what OS it was for.

santer_2

A friendly Computer shop would help

Microsoft can tell you from the disc

JasX

santer wrote: »

A friendly Computer shop would help

Microsoft can tell you from the disc

You sir have no idea what you're talking about, the code is not present on the disk in any form, only possible chance OP may have is if the 'barcode' bit of the sticker is still intact he might be able to scan that and get microsoft to decode his key from the barcode.... otherwise no sticker you'll be needing (buying most likely) another one i'm afraid

bob_man_uk

linky

i knew it was out there, vista OEM SLP keys.

you can try it and see if it these keys work for your laptop, remember to use the key that matches you machine and version of windows exactly, i "shouldnt" work otherwise.

just to clarify, these are NOT pirated keys, these are "system locked pre-installation" keys, a set of keys given to manufacturers so they can mass image and install Vista on their machines.

santer_2

The disc has an ID Code which Microsot use eg

Windows Validation Data-->
Validation Status: Blocked VLK
Validation Code: 3
Cached Validation Code: N/A
Windows Product Key: *****-*****-HM64M-6GJRK-8K83T
Windows Product Key Hash: zG14BddWJSi9s2Jj0qZDc21SAXo=
Windows Product ID: 55274-648-5295662-23862
Windows Product ID Type: 1
Windows License Type: Volume
Windows OS version: 5.1.2600.2.00010100.2.0.pro

bob_man_uk

santer wrote: »

The disc has an ID Code which Microsot use

have any evidence to backup this claim? if its true then it will save a lot of broken hearts but tbh, i havent heard of it, ive tried it and ive dealt with operating systems going back to 95

closed

select versions do, home don't

santer_2

1. Answer whatever questions that are asked of you. The Microsoft representative may ask for specific details about your Windows installation disc, like the numbers around the inner circle of the CD/DVD and details about what words or images that may or may not be on the disc.
   Microsoft asks these questions to help verify that the installation disc you have is not pirated.

http://pcsupport.about.com/od/osproductkeys/ht/windows-product-key-replacement.htm

bob_man_uk

poppy10 wrote:

OP, the product key should be on the CD sleeve or manual that came with the computer.

Gerrard_8_lfc wrote: »

I have neither now so I guess I will need to buy one. Cheers for you help guys

so thanks for the help santer, but in this instance, useless

paddyrg

IIRC there should be a green card in shrinkwrap came with the machine, a certificate of authenticity for Windows - that may have your OEM product key on it somewhere?