Recovering Windows 7 Key
 

I have a MSDN copy of Windows 7 on my computer, and now that my account has expired, I can't access it and copy down my key (something I should have done long before).

If I recall, there was a way in XP to find out the OS's CD key without installing any 3rd party software.

I looked up Google and can't find any results for Windows 7. I'm skeptical about using 3rd party software as I feel they will copy my CD key and send it out (I'm just basing this off being paranoid)

Does anyone know how to recover Windows 7 CD key WITHOUT 3rd party software? In the event that I DO need to use one, is there any that you guys would recommend?

Thanks in advance.

The keys are encrypted in the registry now. Just do a google search. I mean the first hit shows you how...

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=recover+Windows+7+CD+key

^Maybe I didn't specify clearly enough, but I wanted to know if there was any method that I can recover the keys WITHOUT using 3rd party software.

I don't know whether you're saying "No, there isn't any method WITHOUT 3rd party software", or you just didn't read my post clearly enough.

Thanks though

I think !MiKrofT alluded to the fact it's not plainly viewable when he said it's encrypted in the registry. I don't believe of any way to do it without using any external software.

I usually use Magical Jellybean if I want to find a serial. The one I linked doesn't require an installer and works for most of the MS products. (although apparently doesn't work for Office 2010)

If you're really paranoid about it sending off your key, then you can always just disconnect the network cable (or turn off WiFi) when you run the application to prevent it sending anything out. If you're REALLY paranoid, then run it inside a sandbox and clear it out when you're done before you reconnect your network.

1) Install 3rd party software.
2) Since you are worried about it copying the key, unplug your internet connection.
3) Run the software and retrieve your key.
4) Uninstall software.
5) Plug your internet connection back in.

Sorry. Yes you need a 3rd party app.

thats the perfect way to do it to make sure ur key doesnt get copied and whored all over the net:)

^
Thanks guys, the thought of unplugging the Internet honestly never came across my mind.

I think I might try the sandbox method. I've never used it before, but I feel unplugging the computer might not be good enough :P

Just a heads up for those who are in the same situation, if you got your copy of Windows 7 from MSDN, MagicJellyBean (or any other program) would not work because the key is a volume-type license and hence not registered in the registry.

I sent an email to MSDN and hope they will send me my key.

Okay, i reformatted my friends computer with windows 7 a few months ago, its not a official version. Now its acting up because it isnt an offical copy of windows, how can i change this?

I think the deal with MSDN is that you only have access to the keys while you're in school using it for school. Once you dont have an account for MSDN, it means you're not in school and won't have access to it? At least I think that's how it works for BCIT.

But our instructor did hint to us that the keys do not expire.

I don't know? Maybe try getting official copy of windows and see how that turns out? Might be a long shot but maybe it'll fix your said problem.

Hope this helps!

We'll this means i need to buy it and get a cd key, which costs around 40bucks with the student discount, I don't wanna spend all this money to just help a friend out.

Tell him to get it? Problem solved.

32 bit? what version