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Topic: Windows 7 Re-Install Which Key |
James Quillian
From:
San Antonio, Texas, USA
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Posted 22 May 2016 2:48 pm |
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When re-installing windows on an OEM installation which key should be entered, the on on the side of the case or the one that a keyfinder program finds in the registry?
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Mitch Drumm
From:
Frostbite Falls, hard by Veronica Lake
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Posted 22 May 2016 3:16 pm
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The sticker key, assuming you are referring to a legit "Certificate Of Authenticity" sticker that has a 25 character code in this format:
xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx
Most likely, the key your key finder found includes "OEM" somewhere in it and it's probably not in 5 groups of 5, like the sticker key.
That's the "System Locked Pre-installation" (SLP) code used by the manufacturer, which is NOT unique. That same code is used to install thousands of instances of Windows.
You MIGHT be able to use the SLP key if your installation media was obtained directly from the PC manufacturer--most likely included with the package the day you bought it. If you are using media directly from the manufacturer, there is some chance you won't have to enter any key because it may be embedded. I don't use manufactured PCs, so I don't know exactly how they have configured any supplied Windows installation disc.
But the sticker key should always work with ANY legit installation media. That's what you paid for and what you need to safeguard.
If, for instance, you downloaded a legit Windows iso and were trying to install it, your SLP key would be useless. You'd have to use the sticker key.
Last edited by Mitch Drumm on 22 May 2016 3:20 pm; edited 1 time in total |
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Wiz Feinberg
From:
Mid-Michigan, USA
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Posted 22 May 2016 3:16 pm
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Sometimes the key in the sticker on your case is old and outdated. If Keyfinder reports a different key, try it.
BTW: Most anti-virus and MBAM think Keyfinder is an unwanted program. It might disappear into the quarantine folder if you allow your AV to auto-delete or auto quarantine suspected threats.
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