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Where is the XP product key in the registry

My computer was reformatted at a computer "repair" shop because of a number of problems, which began with my mouse not moving...

They reinstalled my XP saying they would use "my product key"...

My question is:  WHERE is this product key in the registry?

I've already changed the registered user name.  They had "user" as the registered owner.  Grrr....  Idiots, they knew my name! 
(Alright, so I'm picky about my computer...)

Thanks,
Katie

Answer
Answer

I'm not really sure that the key is maintained in the registry.  According to KB938720, the Product ID (not the key) is in the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProductID

But I have read several articles that claim that you do not need to revalidate on the same machine if you copy the

C:\Windows\System32\wpa.dbl

file before reinstalling and then replace that file after reinstalling windows.  This would imply that the key may be embedded in that file somewhere.  There are several freeware programs that will dig out your key and display it for you.  Among them are "keyfinder" and "Belarc Advisor".

HTH,
   JW

 

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Question Info

Last updated February 16, 2024 Views 4,215 Applies to: