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Locating a Lost Windows 9X/Me Product Key
Last updated: 11/21/04

Q.  I lost my CD Key (Product Key) for Windows 9X/Me.  How can I find it?

A.  When Windows is installed, the Setup program requires that you type in a 25-character Product Key that is on the back of the CD (jewel) case or on a certificate on the cover of the Gettting Started/User Manual.  During the Windows installation the Product Key is stored in the Windows Registry.  You can find it on your computer by clicking Start, Run, and entering regedit.  Click the plus signs to expand the branches in the Registry until you reach:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current Version

Scroll the right pane until you find ProductKey.

Windows FAQ Index

Also, see Windows Tips and Tricks.

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