Archived from groups: microsoft.public.win2000.setup (
More info?)
Greetings --
The Windows 25-character Product Key (required to perform the
installation) is stored on the CD packaging on a bright orange sticker
that says "Do not lose this number." If it was an OEM (factory
installed) license, it's stored on a label that the PC manufacturer
affixed to the exterior of the PC case, or on the bottom of a laptop.
To recover a lost Product Key:
If your system still runs, you should be able to use Belarc
Advisor from
http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html to find the
Product Key. (If you have a factory-installed OEM license, and
haven't since reinstalled the OS, the revealed Product Key is probably
of the drive image used at the factory and not _your_ specific Product
Key; therefore, it probably cannot be -- and definitely should not
be -- used for a re-installation.)
If it was a retail license and you have proof of purchase:
How to Replace Lost, Broken, or Missing Microsoft Software or Hardware
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;326246
If it was an OEM license, you should contact whomever sold you the
OS; although very few manufacturers/vendors keep records of the
Product Keys they've sold, it's worth a try before you have to buy a
new license.
Bruce Chambers
--
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"kenkpvp" <kenkpvp@netscape.net> wrote in message
news:16caf01c44832$29530d90$a501280a@phx.gbl...
> after installing win 2k server, i have misplaced the label
> with the product id on it; now, after a total meltdown of
> the system due to sasser worm infestation (i think!), i
> need to re-install, but cannot without the id number. is
> there a way to get it?
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