I bought a pc from someone who told me that a window would appear with my serial key in so I should write it down in case I have to re-install XP. When I turned on the pc there was no window I know my xp is valid as I've been on the website for verification, but what I'd like to know if you can help is:

Is there any way of finding out your serial key in the computer?

Thanks

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Hello I'm new to this forum, I keep looking at the different threads and will be posting on here more soon.

Be safe!

I think your friend means activation key instead of serial key. This is for activating windows.
To do this go down to the taskbar and somewere near the clock should be a icon that looks like two keys. DOuble click on the keys and it should bring up a screen that'll help you ativate windows.
If you don't see the two keys then go the start menu>all programs, at the top of the list there should be a icon called something like Activate Windows. Click on it and follow the instructions.

Thanks for the reply. But I don't think there is anything like that on the computer but I will double check, In the meantime is there any way of finding it out in the system files or other files?

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Hello I'm new to this forum, I keep looking at the different threads and will be posting on here more soon.

Be safe!

Well if you bought this from someone did he or she build this computer or did the buy it from a store?

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Check the computer's case - there should be a sticker with a license key. If there isn't one, XP was included illegally with the computer.

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If you have already Validated with Microsoft, then you can use Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder to find your exisiting installtion key (in case you lost it, the sticker got tore off or damaged, or you changes cases).

Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder is a small utility to find your key, and is not intended for boot leg copies. If you are in doubt that your Installtion CD Key is valid, you can use the Jelly Bean to extract the key and then telephone Microsoft for verification of its validity.

Often, when a user brings in a PC to my shop and the case has been damaged, changed, or the WGA sticker removed. I use this Jelly Bean to extract the key and verify its validity by contacting Microsoft. We do this because our computer shop refuses to service PC's that have illegal copies of Windows installed (its a five thousand dollar fine ($5,000) for every violation).

Magical Jelly Bean is the best keyfinder I have used. A very good program for anyone who lost are misplaced their Product key.

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