CD-KEY
A CD-KEY or Product Key is a unique set of numbers or letters provided with software that helps prevent software piracy. Software that requires a CD-KEY or Product Key will not install onto a computer until a valid number is entered.
Above is an example of the Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Product Key
that can be found on the side or bottom of an OEM computer. In this example, the last four sets of letters and numbers have been hidden to protect the unique key.
After Windows has been installed on a computer you will be asked for this activation key to verify your computer has a legitimate copy of
Windows. Below, are the formats of the Microsoft Windows Product keys.Windows 7, Server 2008, Vista, Server 2003, XP, 2000, ME, and 98
Product key: xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx
Windows 95 and NT
Product key: xxxxx-xxx-xxxxxxx-xxxxx
- Computer Hope's policy on CD-KEYs and why you should not give out your CD-KEYs can be found on our underground section.
