Product Key... how to identify in system?

[Arlo1]

I need some help with locating product key in windows xp. I bought a desktop some time ago and now I want to format it. It came pre-installed with Windows xp on the same. But now there is some problem with the installation. I cannot move ahead unless I know the product key. It will be needed for the setup. I tried to run a repair setup but it does not works fine. There is virus problem and also the system is extremely slow.

[prash_mate]

You can use a product key finder software. But if you are having some kind of recovery utility in your pc then you can simply restore your system back and there is no need to add the key. You only need the key if you have to manually install windows xp with the CD. Check the Cd's also. On the back cover lies the serial key which you can use for activation. If you are still confuse you can download product key finder from web and install the same in your pc.

[Wooody]

That is correct. If you are having automated recovery option on boot then there is no need to look for the CD. You just need to hit the specific key on boot and you will get system recovery. You can check the key combination in the manuals. I am sure that will be enough to fix the system output and gain a bit more from the existing issue. Try to run system restore fro start. That is a basic way of fixing problem and do not forget to backup your data.

[Zachary]

Just check the accessories that you got with the desktop. Every branded system comes with an installation cd that helps you to restore your pc back again in case of such issue. It is necessary that you must simply find that disc and boot your pc with that. I am having one with me. I got that with my laptop and whenever there is a issue I insert the disc and reboot my pc. That's all. The job is done. There is no problem with the restoration.

[shivinder]

If it is a branded system then format is cautiously. The system has the original windows copy. If you just formatted with some other disc you might loose that. And it is correct that ample of manufacturers offers you the OEM disc. You can use that for the restoration process. Clean format is what you need. But you can try scanning your system in safe mode with good antivirus. That might fix the issue to some extent.