Recovered my PC but...

[jcnovak]

I recently moved and in the process I lost a box containing some of my books and files, among them was the support materials for my computer, except the recovery disk.

I used the recovery disk (without thinking) which reformated the HD and reinstalled the original files. Than upon rebooting it asked for my name and "product key". The product key was in the lost box. Now I am stomped. Do I have to purchase a new Win98 to get the product key?

Are there any suggestions on the options I have?

[Underclocked]

Yes, stop hitting the enter button for the same message /forum/smile.gif You are basically out of luck with that windows unless you contact the manufacturer and they tell you from their records (which I doubt they have).

[socalgal]

Don't know if this will work in your situation, but it's worth a try...

Run regedit go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/software/Microsoft/windows/current version click on current version and it will be located under product key

[socalgal]

dp

[This message has been edited by socalgal (edited 08-23-99).]

[fishboy]

I hate to be the bearer of illegal news, but you can always find someone who has 98 and copy the OEM number from that machine and use it on yours. Go on some warez sites also. Im sure you can find a valid OEM #.

[socalgal]

It's NOT okay to suggest illegal methods of obtaining such numbers, nor to refer someone to warez sites.

[This message has been edited by socalgal (edited 08-23-99).]

[IRED]

Borrowing is not illegal.I know if I had a choice between buying a new disk or borrowing one I would borrow one.

It's not like he did't already pay for it.

[socalgal]

I sympathize, believe me. However, don't shoot the messenger (me). For the purposes of this forum, such as suggested cannot be condoned to keep this BBS in good standing.

I refer you to the EULA (End User License Agreement) which is contained in the Help section of Win98 (I'm sure it's in Win95 also). Here's a c&p of the relevant portions for your reference:

"SOFTWARE PRODUCT LICENSE

1. GRANT OF LICENSE.
This EULA grants you the following rights:

*A license for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT may not be shared or used concurrently on different COMPUTERS.

** Software Transfer.
The initial user of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT may make a one-time permanent transfer of this EULA and SOFTWARE PRODUCT only directly to an end user. This transfer must include all of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT (including all component parts, the media and printed materials, any upgrades, this EULA, and, if applicable, the Certificate of Authenticity)."

I don't make the rules, but we have to follow them here for the sake of SysOpt to remain cool.

[This message has been edited by socalgal (edited 08-23-99).]

[Mntsnow]

As I posted in one of your other threads that had not been deleted...I will say if you did infact register your software Microsoft can help you in getting the "key"

Mntsnow

[fishboy]

For the price that software companies charge for their products, I would have no problems using pirated or borrowed software or downloading serial numbers from warez sites. When you buy a product for 50 bucks only to find out in 12 months a new version is out making yours obsolete...well f-ck the software companies. What do you think people use burners for anyway. Buy\borrow the game, burn it and return it. Symantec wont even support NAV 4.04 anymore. They want you to buy 5.0. Got news for ya. A new version is coming out. NAV 2000. They can all kiss my a*s

[fishboy]

dup

[This message has been edited by fishboy (edited 08-24-99).]

[fishboy]

For the price that software companies charge for their products, I would have no problems using pirated or borrowed software or downloading serial numbers from warez sites. When you buy a product for 50 bucks only to find out in 12 months a new version is out making yours obsolete...well f-ck the software companies. What do you think people use burners for anyway. Buy\borrow the game, burn it and return it. Symantec wont even support NAV 4.04 anymore. They want you to buy 5.0. Got news for ya. A new version is coming out. NAV 2000. They can all kiss my a*s. This has been one persons opinion

[Ygor]

Fishboy, it's obvious you don't write software for a living. I don't either, but with enough attytoods like yours, no one would.

That would leave you with a nice paperweight, wouldn't it?

[fishboy]

By the paperweight comment I assume you mean that the computer is useless without software. I just am tired of getting ripped off at the software stores that charge insane prices for software that will be obsolete in a few months. And dont tell me you enjoy paying 100 bucks for Win 95 only to have to shell out another 100 for 98. Already have 98? Well for just another 20 (yes I am aware of the free download but I am making a point)you can get the upgrade for the upgrade. Again, this is just my angry consumers opinion. If software was reasonably priced and gave you a way to really update the product, you and I would not need to have this conversation. Viva La Revolucion!

[Sweeper]

C'mon guys. settle down.
Let's keep this site nice n' friendly.

[clough]

I'd go get a product registration # anywhere I could.Then you can contact Microsoft and get your # and in the meantime use your computer.WHATS THE BIG DEAL?Also you did pay for it who says you can't use it?

[clough]

[This message has been edited by clough (edited 08-24-99).]

[clough]

[This message has been edited by clough (edited 08-24-99).]

[clough]

I'd go get a product registration # anywhere I could.Then you can contact Microsoft and get your # and in the meantime use your computer.WHATS THE BIG DEAL?Also you did pay for it who says you can't use it?

[clough]

[This message has been edited by clough (edited 08-24-99).]

[clough]

[This message has been edited by clough (edited 08-24-99).]

[GB]

I agree with Sweeper.
My suggestions to cjnovak problem:
1)call MS to generate new #.
2)try all 9's or 1's to enter as Key #.

All I know this forum need good administrator that can handle people.
You can NOT call someone idiot, moron etc here.
I'm on other forum like this- try to call someone "names" and you're out. With almost no 'second chance'
thats how should be.
You're respected the way you respect others.

[jcnovak]

Thank you all for the comments and suggestions. ( Recovered my PC but..) I ended up buying a new Win98 and I am back in business.