XPost: alt.os.windows-xp, alt.windows-xp, microsoft.public.windowsxp.basics   
   XPost: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support   
   From: bchambers@cable0ne.n3t   
      
   echo wrote:   
   > Help,   
   > I've lost my Certificate of Authenticity for my Windows XP Home edition but   
   > still have the original disk.  Is there any way to get a replacement   
   > certificate ?   
   >   
   > This is an OEM version and proof of purchase is going to be impossible.   
   >   
   > Thanks for any help.   
   >   
   >   
      
      
        The Windows 25-character Product Key (required to perform the   
   installation) is not on the installation CD in any way, shape, or form.   
   It is stored on the CD packaging on a bright orange sticker that says   
   "Do not lose this number."  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 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.aspx?scid=KB;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.   
      
      
   --   
      
   Bruce Chambers   
      
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