Here's the thing - I have a Windows 7 Ultimate DVD, genuine, kosher, real BUT it has become separated from the case it came in SO I no longer have the key. Someone suggested installing without using the key and then using something like JellyBean Key Finder to extract the key, but I'm pretty dubious about this as I don't think the installation will complete without the key being entered at the appropriate prompt. Any ideas?
Are you trying to get a key off another machine to then use the disc to reinstall the os on that machine? The key finder will only show you the key of an existing install or at least a HDD with an existing install on it.
On the machine the OS is already installed on download Speccy as linked in my sig, run it and click on the Operating System tab on the left. Your key will be in the information displayed on the right hand side.
You never have to use a key when you install windows, but you need a key to activate it ? You will have 30 days to find or buy a working key.
If you install windows without a key, there is nothing for Jelly Bean key finder to find, sorry, you are up a creek.
Yes, that was pretty much what I thought
It seems a shame as the disk is genuine. I've scoured the flat but the key is definitely gone.
How does one go about loosing a $150.00 or more Windows 7 COA key??
Maybe the COA key should cost more so people would save it.
Maybe if the COA key cost $500.00 the key would be saved.
I'm just trying to understand.
Quote