Windows Activation Code rubbed off from bottom of computer / hard drive crash

Question

I have a Studio XPS 13 that is having major Windows issues.  It won't boot into Safe mode or to the desktop.  Windows hasn't been installed in 4 years, so it's do for a clean reinstall to fix the problems.  I went to my re-installation disc, thinking that the Windows Authentication Code would be on the disc on one of those shiny labels.  Nope.  It's only on the bottom of the computer.  Of course, that has long worn off! So how do I get the authentication code to re-enter into the computer when I reinstall Windows and it asks for it?

steveb321 · Accepted Answer

OK thanks. That's very good news. I have all the original stuff so if it doesn't cue me for an activation code, that would be perfect.

Per your other advice, I tried booting into Windows Safe mode to go to a previous restore point, Windows Repair, SpinRite, and a Windows clean install but unfortunately I think the hard drive went bad. It just hangs on the same point in the process and does nothing no matter what I do :(

ejn63 · Answer

If you haven't reloaded the OS at any point, just use the quick restore (F12 before Windows loads; choose Repair, then recover from the menu).

Even if you have to reload manually, as long as you have the Dell DVD, you won't need the product key to do the install.

Locked Topics – Laptops General

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