Missing Windows XP disc and packaging

[rivan]

I ordered a copy of XP directly from MS late last year - october I think, is there any chance they'll still have records? I trodged around their site but I'm either not searching for the right terms or just generally clueless.

How do I get replacement media and my key back?

 

[JohnAn2112]

You lost your disk AND your key? Sorry to say, but you're probably SOL.

 

[rivan]

I lost the whole package - though it's still installed on my machine. I just upgraded and now it's wanting to be validated again, and I thought I'd reinstall.

Thinking on it, I assume there's a way to pull my key from my existing install? Dumb question, perhaps, but is it somewhere to be found?

 

[Ryland]

Technically since you are no longer in possession of the physical license you are supposed to uninstall Windows, ugh.

Im 99% sure that there is a utility you can use to find out your license key, try googling it. here is one possiblity http://www.petri.co.il/quickly_retrieve_windows_cd_key.htm

 

[WildHorse]

rivan,

You can use a freeware utility such as Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder v1.5
or WinKeyFinder
to discover, or to change, the key in your already-installed Windows XP.

However, if you decide to change your key, then I don't understand whether you can simply go online to MS and re-activate using a changed key, or not.

I also don't understand the relationship between the key and a Certificate of Authentication.

If anybody cares to explain it would be appreciated.

 

[rivan]

I don't really need to change it - I own the key that's there legally. Without the disk or packaging, however, I'll need to retrieve it to reinstall.

I assume it's the mobo/processor change that's prompting the re-validate nag, but it seems a little sluggish anyway, so I'll likely reinstall.

The key is the serial number for the software. I believe the Genuine Authentication Certificate Whatever is only generated after the serial is validated online.

edit: thanks for the links, guys