XP Key problem

Discussion in 'Software' started by delorean, Feb 7, 2008.

  1. delorean

    delorean Megabyte Poster

    959
    15
    64
    Just wondered if anyone could help with this issue, it's doing my head in!

    I have a customer PC here with XP Pro on it. The PC won't boot, it needs an OS repair. That much I have concluded.

    Here's the problem.

    The system has a legal product key but the machine is old and the key sticker is illegible. I also cannot boot in to the OS in any way whatsoever (at least to the best of my knowledge anyway) so using a keyfinder is going to be an issue.

    Is there a utility to put on say a floppy or usb drive that will boot in to some sort of software and get the key so I can use it in OS repair?

    I did try hooking the HDD up to a test box I have in the office but using a keyfinder doesn't find the key on that drive, only the one on my test box OS.

    I really don't want to put the customer in to the situation of buying a new key so if anyone can help with ideas that would be great thanks. :)
     
    Certifications: A+, MCP 70-270, 70-290, 70-291
    WIP: 70-680, S+, MCSA, MCSE, CCNA
  2. grizz3210

    grizz3210 Byte Poster

    105
    2
    29
    Hi

    this may be of help

    http://www.microsoft.com/communitie...6bca-4cc7-9318-d4a715766d36&lang=en&cr=us&p=6
     
    Certifications: A+ N+ MCTS-vista
    WIP: MCDST
  3. delorean

    delorean Megabyte Poster

    959
    15
    64
    Thanks for the handy link grizz, though I cannot find a freeware command line utility that does it. Although I have thought of another solution.

    I am trying ERD on a tools CD. If I can boot ERD, I may be able to use a windows version via a usb stick and get the key that way.

    Shall keep ye informed!

    edit: didn't work. ERD caused the machine to blue screen.
     
    Certifications: A+, MCP 70-270, 70-290, 70-291
    WIP: 70-680, S+, MCSA, MCSE, CCNA
  4. delorean

    delorean Megabyte Poster

    959
    15
    64
    Think I may have just solved my own problem!

    I'm using a new build of BartPE with a BartPE keyfinder Plugin. Should do the job nicely I hope! :)
     
    Certifications: A+, MCP 70-270, 70-290, 70-291
    WIP: 70-680, S+, MCSA, MCSE, CCNA
  5. derkit

    derkit Gigabyte Poster

    1,480
    58
    112
    Does this help?
    Linky
    I thought there was some mention of it in the registry.

    Perhaps under /windir in the first table
     
    Certifications: MBCS, BSc(Hons), Cert(Maths), A+, Net+, MCDST, ITIL-F v3, MCSA
    WIP: 70-293
  6. delorean

    delorean Megabyte Poster

    959
    15
    64

    Now that is a useful little tool. Nice find, thanks. :)
     
    Certifications: A+, MCP 70-270, 70-290, 70-291
    WIP: 70-680, S+, MCSA, MCSE, CCNA

Share This Page

Loading...
  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.