How to Recover a Lost PC Game CD Key
Most computer games come with a CD key as a precautionary measure against piracy. So what do you do when you have legitimately purchased a game, but cannot find the key you used to install it? All product keys are stored within your computer's registry files. Combing through your registry for a key would be a real headache, so luckily some programs exist to take care of this tedious task automatically. A key finder program serves to find any keys that have been entered into the registry.
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Instructions
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Download the installer file for the key finder software of your choice. Save the file to your desktop. Double-click the installer file once it has completed downloading to launch the installation wizard. Follow any on-screen prompts as directed.
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Double-click on the key finder's program icon to launch the program.
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Wait for the key finder to finish scanning your registry. Some programs may require user input to get started, while others may begin this process automatically. Once the scan is complete, search the list of registry keys to find the one that corresponds with your game. It is possible that your program may be able to automatically search for a program listing.
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Tips & Warnings
Locating a lost CD key with key finder software is only possible if you have previously installed the software. If you are missing a CD key from a brand new game CD, contact the game manufacturer or the retailer you purchased the game from.
