Lost CD KEY/Can't access windows

I Can't get my CD Key, and I can't get into windows. What do I have to do here? I was in the process of redoing my windows xp service pack 2 install and when it came to the end it asked for me 25 digit cd key. So everytime I restart my computer it comes back to this screen. I have no idea on what I have to do, I just bought this computer from a friend and they don't have any of the cds for it. Any kind of help would be greatly appreciated.

*Edit*
Is there a way I can just buy a new CD and key? If so where and how much? And would this resolve my problem?

Thanks.

 

I don't know what if it is home or pro.

Also OEM or Retail?

Sorry I don't know much about computers. But after I bought this it killed me when it didn't work.

And how much does that CD usually cost?

This will work right? because I mean, I started to install the service pack 2 without the 25-digit CD code. And the whole update is finished, but at the end it's asking for the code. So what you're saying is if I go buy a new XP cd and just enter that code. It will work? Because I tried entering the code for my other computer to see if it would work, lol, and it said wrong code. So a NEW XP cd and code will work and it won't say "Wrong Code "?

Because when I restart my computer it keeps asking me to enter the service pack 2 CD and enter the code in.

And will this completely restore the whole computer back to original? Like there will be no files and such on it? Sorry for all the questions, but I really have no clue on what I am doing.

 

I am uncertain what you have done. Service Pack 2 does not request a CD key.

It is likely that a retail license for XP will exceed what you spent for this computer. Return it to your friends. If the computer is a branded item from a known builder, you can get the needed CDs and other necessary items at a modest charge. Call Tech support and discuss your issue.

 

Well, what I have done is, downloaded service pack 2 onto a cd and installed it onto my computer. Everything was going smoothely, but than it came to the last part, Installing Windows, and it asked for my 25 Digit CD Key.

How much does a retail license for XP cost anyways?

 

Service Pack 2 does not require reinstalling Windows, hence my earlier question. Nor does it ask for a CD Key.

For a long time Microsoft offered essentially "amnesty" for XP installations where the license was clearly pirated. I believe they may have changed policies, but do not know this for a fact.

In any case, a Google search on XP for retail licenses should show a range of options. Depending on what you want, (Pro vs. Home vs. Media Center), (an N or non-N version), and whether the license if for Student use or otherwise, will change the pricing. As will whether it is a "Full" Retail (Microsoft support included) or an "OEM" license (no-Microsoft support, and only a clean installation is possible) matter as well. And to make your choices even richer, you will for a "Full" retail, be able to choose between an Upgrade or just "Full" retail release. The upgrade requires qualifying media during the installation.

Since you are being prompted for a CD Key, you likely would find a Student version (if you qualify), or an OEM version the most cost effective.

 

how would I go about finding these? just google search it?

And it is a pro version that I have installed.

 

In Google, type:

windows xp retail

You should avoid any offer:

. significantly cheaper than that suggested by large retailers
. any use of online auction sites
. use a credit card, please. This gives you a fighting chance to get your money back.
. Read carefully any return materials authorization information provided. If none is, go to the next site.

Remember though my earlier advice. If the box came from a big retailer such as a Dell, or HP or similar, talk to their Tech Support Department. This would be the cheapest solution all around.

If not from a big box manufactuer see my notes to find a good fit for your circumstance.

If the original license was a "Full" retail from Microsoft:

How to replace lost, broken, or missing Microsoft software or hardware
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=326246

 

I honestly have no clue as to which one I need to be getting. I don't want to get the wrong one. Like I said I know nothing about this computer(because it was bought from a friend) or computers in general. So this makes things a lot more difficult. Sorru if i'm causing hassle here. Just not understanding it.

After further staring at the blue screen, i noticed it says, the 25-character Product Key uniquely identifies your copy of Windows XP. So is this saying that the Produc Key is the Key for the Windows XP I am installing? Or what is currently on my computer? I am so confused right now.

 

There is little I can help you with. You have a non-bootable machine, and no documentation. And, apparently, no COA key on the side of the case.

Because you seem like an honest fellow, I wrote extensively about your options earlier. I does not seem to me that you have explored any of them.

Best advice: do not buy used cars or computers from "friends." Do not date their ex-girlfriends. Do not marry their ex-wives. But your "friend" needs to be more forthcoming here, or tell him you want your money back.

Best Holiday wishes,
Bill

 

You should go back to your friend and ask:

Is the XP installation a retail installation meaning did your friend install XP on this machine, and if so, where is the XP cd? That cd will have the Key with it.

Is the XP installation an OEM installation meaning did XP come installed with the Computer from the Manufacturer?

In either case, why isn't there a sticker on the case of the computer with the Key?

You're better off buying a XP cd and installing that. This whole thing sound fishy.

Regards - Charles

 

It is an OEM. Not retail.

 

That's even more reason to get your own XP and clean install it. If you have to reinstall or repair your OS, can't do it now.

How to: http://www.helpwithwindows.com/WindowsXP/setup.html

If you have a Cd with a previous version of Windows such as Winows98 or WinME, you can get the "upgrade" version of XP - Home or Pro which is a full OS - at approx half the cost of the "Full" retail version. I think that works out to approx 100.00 USD or less.

The reason you need a 98 etc cd for the upgrade version is becasue during a clean install, XP asks for proof of a previous version to justify the half price. During the install process, you have to insert the prevous version, the install inspects it, and then just continues on with the XP install.

Regards - Charles

 

If it's an OEM version installed by one of the companies that make computers (Dell, Gateway, etc.) call them. That would be the cheapest route. Dell for instance, used to only charge $5 dollars for one. It may be different now, I don't know, but it would be worth checking out. You may run into a road block though since you aren't the original buyer of the computer. I don't really know about that. It can't hurt to ask though. Maybe your friend could purchase it for you.

What brand of computer is this?

 

Dell Inspiron 1501 laptop

 

I appreciate everyone's help on this thread. One of my other friends had a extra product key lying around. So he told me to give it a try. It works.

So again I would like to thank everyone who helped me.

Close Thread please.