i have just reinstalled windows 7 to fix an issue i had, i had a legit key but i don't remember it or have it written down. i'm wondering if it might be somewhere in the windows.old folder or if it might be linked to my email. if anyone knows i way i can find that same key so i don't have to buy windows again that would be awesome.
Welcome
Just use one of these. I suggest jelly bean. If the OS came with the computer, the key is right on the computer body.
Key Finder Programs - Top 13 Free Product Key Finder Programs - Keyfinder Software
I don't think that will work since he reinstalled and does not have the key. I don't think any of those programs looks in Windows.old. Hope I'm wrong but I don't think so.
Where did you get the Win 7 install DVD? Is it purchased or downloaded? If downloaded then you should have E-mail somewhere with the info in it you need.
the first time i got the key i got the key from my brother, he got it from his school, he got a 32 bit and a 64 bit, so he gave me the 64 bit key. he has checked his email.
i try ed one of those programs and put in a bunch of keys it told me to but non of them worked. not sure where to go from here
I always tell my students to save a text file in Notepad with their Key Code & save it to their HD & to a CD or USB Flash for safe keeping. And also print out two (2) copies & put in safe places when you may need it again.
Sounds like your only option is for your brother to contact the souce where he got it, to see if they have a record of it.
You can try rolling back the installation using the windows.old folder to see if it holds activation, in which case you could then audit the key from the mobo using Belarc Advisor.
How to restore a Windows 7-based computer to a previous Windows installation by using the Windows.old folder
Your brother could not give you the key to activate 64 bit and use it on 32 bit himself. Only one key can be used for each license, either 32- or 64-bit. So he may need to buy another key anyway if he was sharing his with you. If not, the key can be tracked using the purchase information with vendor - look up on bank statement if necessary to find the date.
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