Windows 7: Cannot obtain Windows 7 product key

Hi,

I've got a problem with my Windows 7 serial number... It got scratched and blurred off of the back of my netbook due to use :/. I've tried several different key finders, and they've all given me the same key as a result, but the key they've given me doesn't match what's left of the key on the bottom.



(As far as I know, the key on the bottom is located on the lower left part of the sticker, under the serial bar. Most of the sticker has lost its text, but that's where the product key was located on my Windows XP. The ten characters still left are clear enough as to realize they're not the same as the one the programs give me).

Should I trust the programs? I really need the key to reinstall the OS (as there are lots of other problems with the machine too :\).
Thank you (very much) in advance...

Tonga

This is a common issue - and unfortunately one that may be un-solvable

When the manufacturer of your PC made your system they used a system image to add the operating system and all the other Bloat free software - this included a special key that does not work like normal keys.

this key will be automatically re-used and activated if you restore using the manufacturer's own restore method - disk or recovery system

To enable you to re-install by other methods the manufacturer also includes another normal key printed on the base of the unit. This will also only work with your system but is not the same as the built in one.

your keyfinder programs are reporting the default built in key which is correct - but this key will only work under the OEM recovery system.

The only way I know of obtaining the external key is to contact the manufacturer and asking them to provide it - as long as you have proof of ownership of the system they may provide this but this would depend on them

Ahh, I see. Thank you very much.

What programs did you use to view the installed key ?

Hah, I erased them just before I checked my email. I think they were Magical Jellybean, Winkeyfinder, Product Key Finder, Keyfinder Thing and Produkey. (I tried to be thorough).

I've just tried Belarc Advisor which we've used at work before and it came back with the correct key for one of my systems but I am using a retail Windows 7 version and not oem.

This is a manifestation of the SLIK system that has been abused in the passed to circumvent the licencing by faking an OEM bios

the key itself is not used to activate or authenticate as is the case with non-OEM systems., it merely allows the direct/auto activation.

A similar thing applies with a Windows 7 install, installed without entering a key. if you run a key finder it will produce a standard key - windows will not run without a key of some type, so a dummy key is included on the install media.

If you install a fresh system without using the OEM restore option you need a conventional key - this is the one supplied affixed to the base of the OEM system

Have you tried creating recovery media to use:

System Image Recovery