"Bruce Chambers" <bchambers@cable0ne.n3t> wrote in message
news:uiEIwd$AGHA.740@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl...
> Jim wrote:
>> I have lost the original CD sleve and do not have the product key. Is
>> there a way to get the number from somewhere or someone?
>
>
> The Windows 25-character Product Key (required to perform the
> installation) is stored on the CD packaging on a bright orange sticker
> that says "Do not lose this number." It is not on the installation CD
> in any way, shape, or form. If it was an OEM (factory installed)
> license, it's stored on a label that the PC manufacturer affixed to
> the exterior of the PC case, or on the bottom of a laptop.
>
> To recover a lost Product Key:
>
> If your system still runs, you should be able to use Belarc
> Advisor from http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html to find the
> Product Key. (If you have a factory-installed OEM license, and
> haven't since reinstalled the OS, the revealed Product Key is probably
> of the drive image used at the factory and not your specific Product
> Key; therefore, it probably cannot be -- and definitely should not
> be -- used for a re-installation.)
>
> If it was a retail license and you have proof of purchase:
>
> How to Replace Lost, Broken, or Missing Microsoft Software or Hardware
> http://support.microsoft.com/default...B;en-us;326246
>
> If it was an OEM license, you should contact the computer's
> manufacturer; although very few manufacturers/vendors keep records of
> the Product Keys they've sold, it's worth a try before you have to buy
> a new license.
>
>

Always, always, always write the serial number or product key on the CD!
Without the serial number the disk is a coaster(or almost). This goes for
any CD with a serial number.