Is my windows cd key stored somewhere on the computer?

[Jonathan86]

I was thinking about reformatting however I cannot find my CD key. Is there a readme file or some other file where it may be stored? I dont know what to do otherwise.

[glc]

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

[Jonathan86]

Thank you very much. I just found my cd key a few minutes ago but this is a very handy tool. I will keep it in mind.

[p270586]

hey, is there a way of getting the same key off a HDD that wont let you logon? i have lost the product key and cant logon to the pc. i can however access the HDD from another pc, so is there a way or a program that could do that?

[glc]

Why won't it let you logon? Try safe mode and log in as Administrator.

[p270586]

it wont let me logon because i dont have the password not even the administrator account and before i reformat i need to get the product key off the HDD. Where on the HDD is it stored?

[Driftwood50]

Originally Posted by p270586 hey, is there a way of getting the same key off a HDD that wont let you logon? i have lost the product key and cant logon to the pc. i can however access the HDD from another pc, so is there a way or a program that could do that?

Follow GLC's link above. If the previous installation's files had been specified as private you may need to change permissions to allow your cleanly installed and/or alternate computer's access to your old files.

DW

[glc]

If you don't have the passwords we can't help you, sorry. We have no way to determine whether you are legitimately trying to gain access to your computer.

http://forum.pcmech.com/rules.php

Thank you for understanding.