Product ID Key, doesn't have enough numbers

Hi,
I am reinstalling Windows XP for a friend, we've used this disc before to upgrade and now redoing it, but when it comes to wanting the Product Key ID, it wants 25 characters, well there is only 20, it's off the Certificate of Authenticity, it has product ID: xxxx-OEM-xxxxxxx-xxxxx (the x's are of course numbers) Any ideas where I can get the correct numbers or what???

Rhonda

 

If you haven't wiped the hard drive you can retrieve the key with Magic Jelly Bean. If the drive has been wiped you will need to locate the WinXP key sticker somewhere on the PC it was loaded on.

 

Hi,
Yep I wiped it, the only sticker I have is the one that came with the Wondows XP upgrade....that is what I used the first time, the Certificate of Authenticity....I thought of seeing if there is somewhere I can email Windows (from the their Website) and give them the product Key I have.....

I wanted to redo her old computer, and then redo mine...no not the same thing, I have her Windows XP upgrade that I got her a few years ago....I wanted to use the Easy Transfer Cable and load my files on to it...my web site and so on....then restore my Windows XP back to new....but then that happened. So I don't know how I would get the Product Key code unless Microsoft can help some how.
If this is a grey area on here I'm sorry....I didn't know, and I can get with Microsoft, they not be able to help either....I wouldn't to upset anyone, this board is awesome!!

Thanks, Rhonda

 

The upgrade CD comes in a pretty stiff cardboard folder and the key for that disc will certainly permit you to do a clean installation. If memory serves me right, it (the key) can be found on the inside cover of the folder.



edit: Obviously, you need to use the upgrade disc if you go this way.

 

Well darn...I no longer have that.....I only have the Product ID.....guess I'll have to save everything to CD to redo my computer....I was planning on doing some transferring from computer to computer. Can you call Microsoft and get a Product Key I wonder???

Rhonda

 

Done wiped out....

 

If it's a disk you bought in a store, call Microsoft. If it's from the manufacturer of the computer, call them.

 

It was bought in a store....

 

Wanted to let everyone know that has been helping me...I called Microsoft, as I had already deleted everything so no way of getting it back....so anyway called Microsoft and explained, they said they would supply me with one Product Key, it will either work or not, if not I was out of luck....but it worked!!! YEAH!! But thought I'd let you all know so if anyone else does this you can call them and they will give you 1 key to try....

Rhonda