Retrieve XP key from HDD??

[QwertyJuan]

I have a client's computer that refuses to boot whatsoever. I have the HDD hooked to my machine and I retrieved all the data, but they don't have a COA on the side of their case

So, was gonna try to retrieve the key from their current Windows install.... any help guys??

Thanks.

 

[Cmustang87]

I think Magical Jelly Bean can do it in an unbootable system.

 

[CrimsonKnight13]

Recover Keys looks to be the best way

http://recover-keys.com/

Another one would be http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder/, which is free.
You can load the registry hive from the other HDD & retrieve it.

I think Magical Jelly Bean can do it in an unbootable system.

Only if you're running it from Windows PE or a working system.

 

[Lateralus]

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder/

Perhaps that may help?

edit: too late

 

[Cmustang87]

Only if you're running it from Windows PE or a working system.

I figured if he made the post he had a working PC somewhere to be able to do this. I've never tried recover-keys before. I may have to check that out.

 

[CrimsonKnight13]

I figured if he made the post he had a working PC somewhere to be able to do this. I've never tried recover-keys before. I may have to check that out.

Yeah, I think we posted nearly around the same time, which is why I corrected myself.

I was thinking about all of the possibilities that could be used. We came to the same conclusion nevertheless.

 

[QwertyJuan]

I loaded the hive from the other drive using magical jelly bean. I have been using MJB for years, but didn't realize I could use it to access drives that weren't actually in a working machine.

Thanks guys!!