Lost product key

tomwalshco · #1 11-21-2004, 12:42 PM

I was given a hard drive I can use to resurrect an old IBM notebook that had Win 95. I have the original OEM CD, but after 8 years, have lost the Product Key to load the software.

Can I find this key by searching through the Win 95 CD or is there a work-around other than calling MS on the phone??? Thanks

Miz · #2 11-21-2004, 10:59 PM

Windows CDs use an algorithm sort of thing so the product key is not on the CD. Any valid Win95 OEM product key will work with any Win95 OEM disk.

If the product key is not on a sticker on the laptop then your only legal option is to call Microsoft and explain the situation. Microsoft, contrary to popular internet myth, wants its customers happy and they will help you any way they can.

Play_The_0dds · #3 11-22-2004, 02:46 PM

sent you a private message here...hope it helps.

tomwalshco · #4 11-22-2004, 02:55 PM

Thanks, Odds. I had a guy send one last night and it worked. Whoever said it was about algorithms was right. Whatever #s are entered must run through a complicated formula and if the result is 1, then you're good to go. All other results spit back....

lordSauron · #5 11-25-2004, 04:45 PM

Wow, I never knew it was an algorithm... Previously I'd just thought that you'd lost the key and that sucks, gotta go buy it <i>again</i>.

jack2323232322 · #6 04-09-2005, 02:35 PM

i am in the same situation. im trying to get an OLD laptop working for my little girl, shes at the age where if it is not her own the worlds at an end, LOL, could someone please help me out? many thanks

MJaeson · #7 04-12-2005, 12:32 PM

go to Google.com and enter this on the field

"Windows 95" +key

(with the "" and +)
Sorry computer ethics prohibits me sending you an exact one, but those links will help you a lot

daruso · #8 04-24-2005, 10:25 PM

i'm having the same problem, i've lost the product key and i can't reinstall windows. i need to solve this problem because i work with this pc.
reply at daruso_kun@yahoo.com.ar please!!!!

Solique18 · #9 04-26-2005, 06:14 AM

Losing your key is a big problem

But I know that windows 98 hasn't got a burned in code. You can also use serial codes from other windows 98 cd's.

At least that's what we use on my work. OK the codes are bought but they can be all used.

Bartos · #10 06-15-2005, 02:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Play_The_0dds

sent you a private message here...hope it helps.

Could you help me with reinstall my Windows 98? I deleted C:WINDOWS and try to install it again, but I lost my Product Key.
Leopold

JimP · #11 06-19-2005, 01:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tomwalshco

I was given a hard drive I can use to resurrect an old IBM notebook that had Win 95. I have the original OEM CD, but after 8 years, have lost the Product Key to load the software.

Can I find this key by searching through the Win 95 CD or is there a work-around other than calling MS on the phone??? Thanks

Hi, It's an algorithm alright but any key from any similar 95 OEM Install CD will work. See if you can find a Buddy that has one. Jim

Jed · #12 08-23-2006, 02:03 AM

I used the quick restore disk on my Compaq 2266 to set it up for kids use. Once completed, it asks for my product key. Let's see, bought it 8 years ago, so go figure. How do I get it? I tried the regedit plan from other sites, but it seems that when I ran the restore, it actually wiped out the code that was there and requires a new one. scpojed@yahoo.com anybody, please! Thanks!

craihof · #13 11-19-2006, 10:45 PM

How do you get the key for Win98?

Biggles77 · #14 01-27-2007, 11:04 AM

I am surprised that this thread has been allowed to continue as it is bordering on the edge of supporting piracy.

Beware the MS lawyers.