Win XP License Key

[mattjp]

Hey, I just did a clean install of XP on an old dell d630 laptop from the system restore disks that came with it. Problem is, I can't find the original XP license key--the one printed on the bottom of the laptop is for vista.

I have access to a site license key through my university, but the new install on the laptop won't accept it. Is there any way to make it work, short of a fresh reinstall with the iso downloaded from the university servers? I'm thinking maybe if I use the school version to update to sp2, I can use the school key...?

Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Matt

 

[linney]

Did the XP install complete, if so, the Product Key may have been an OEM one and the machine is Activated and Licensed already as part of the recovery that you performed? Or is it patiently waiting for you to enter the Product Key very early on in the Install?

326246 - How to Replace Lost, Broken, or Missing Microsoft Software or Hardware

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;326246&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

Try contacting Dell too if the operating system came pre-installed.

http://support.dell.com/support/top...port_central?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs&~ck=anavml

The other install media may work if the Product Keys are valid and entitled to be used to install on your machine.