Where is the file with my Windows XP CD-Key/serial on my computer?

Question

I think you can find it somewhere on a pc if you know where your looking... which I don't. Is it in a notepad file somewhere?

I have legit XP Pro, and have it on official CD... but am planning to format (after working out best way to format hard-drive of sensitive info).... and the cd-key might come in useful.

Thanks.

Answer 1

You can review but not change your Win XP cd key by downloading this tiny software (12 kb):
http://www.download.com/XP-CD-Key-Extractor/3000-2094_4-10518413.html
As it is from download.com it is tested spyware free.
However, if you wish to modify your key, then go to this link for information : http://support.microsoft.com/kb/328874

Answer 2

The Key is located on a small strip that is on the sleave that came with your copy of the CD. You will need this Key to do a Erase Install Feature using the CD.
Remember there are several different options to do this, if you read your choices when you insert the CD.
If you however have sensitive information as you claim, I would do a Goverment wipe that entails a 7 pass erase Install
I suggest you do a Google search of this method.
There are some Internet Security Suites that do make this option available.
Don

Answer 3

normally the windows xp product key is located on the side or the back of your p.c,and sometimes even inside the case itself
however if you have problems finding yours you can find it by downloading the diagnostic utility "sisoft sandra lite" from http://www.sisoftware.net/index.html?dir=&location=downandbuy&langx=en&a=
this program has several "modules" which deal with specific parts of your computer,you need to go to the software tab and then the windows sub-section ,then inthere you will find your windows product key as well as loads of other usefull info
this is especially useful when trying to diagnose a problem with your p.c as it gives you many useful specifications such as motherboard make and model and chipset driver download link
theres also some benchmarks included in the latest version
you have done the correct thing by getting your product key before you format your hard drive as it would be slot harder to get the key with just the disk itself
i hope this helps
good luck mate!

Answer 4

um you can go to best buy or walmart and buy a windows disk it should come with a product key when you buy it or just ask the guy that your gonna buy it from what to do with the product key and stuff lol or you can get windows vista or 7 for free as a torrent file but i dont wanna tell you that cause my yahoo account will be baned cause its illigel so search about it on google

Answer 5

you should have it on a sticker either on you pc or on the case the disc came in if not you are going to have problems it's not listed anywhere you can get at on the files
you can try the options given but I don't think you will have any luck

Answer 6

You should have the Key Code affixed to the computer on a sticker provided with the software.
If not you can use http://www.Belarc.com

Answer 7

its actualy in the regristry somewhere but you should have a sticker on the pc with it on it if not there are several software downloads that will find it for you the one i use is adia32

Answer 8

It's buried in the registry - use the Magical Jellybean program from http://www.magicaljellybean.com to retrieve it. It will also recover your Office key as well.

Answer 9

it should be on a sticker on the back of your PC

If not, go Control Panel, System and on the General page the key code will be there, under Registered to.

Answer 10

Look in My computer, properties, general, or control panel (classic view), system, general