How do I Find the Product Key on a PC That Won't Load Up?

You may find your product key attached to the computer itself.

Although a computer that is not working may prevent you from finding the product key through the computer itself, you should still be able to find the product key through documentation or even in your e-mail. If you are still unable to find your Windows product key, you may have to purchase a new one. Using a product key for your operating system or software that was not purchased for or with your computer is illegal.

Instructions

1. Check the computer itself for evidence of a product key sticker. If you purchased your computer with Windows already installed, the product key should be there. This sticker, or "Certificate of Authenticity," will include a 25-digit product key. The product key will be broken into five sections of five digits each, separated by a dash.

2. Examine the packaging or case your Windows operating system CD came in if your version of Windows was not originally included with your computer. The Certificate of Authenticity sticker or wrapper will usually be on the top of the software packaging. The product key will be listed on the sticker or wrapper.

3. Check the documentation included with your system recovery disc. If you purchased your operating system or other software online, check your e-mail for the product key.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the packaging and all documentation associated with your computer, operating system and other software in an easy-to-access location. This ensures that you will not have to buy another product key.

• Do not access sites or programs that offer product keys for free. If you use these product keys on Microsoft products that you have already purchased, you may violate the product warranty.

• If your computer is working, you can also use "keyfinder" programs to decrypt your computer's product key.

• "Certificate of Authenticity" stickers may come in several different colors depending on when you purchased the software, and whether or not the software was included with your computer or not. A Certificate of Authenticity will always include your product key, though it may not be labeled as the product key.

References

• Microsoft: "How to Tell"
• Windows: "Where do I find my Windows 7 product key?"