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Original title: Product Key
I downloaded Windows 8.1 (free) from the Microsoft web site. My understanding was that in doing so, a new product key would be generated. I do not know where/how to find the new product key. Can someone help me out with this? Was I mistaken and do I use the product key I have for Windows 8?
Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.
Hi John,
The Product Key on a computer that has Windows 8 pre-installed is embedded in the BIOS on the motherboard. There is no longer any sticker with the product key.
When you upgrade to the final version of the free Windows 8.1, the activation will be automatic and use the embedded product key.
Hope this information helps.
search google for belarc key finder this is free and will show all keys installed on the machine or try magic jelly bean key finder
or go here choose option 5 http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/27129-product-key-find-windows-8-a.html
Thanks for the response but this didn't help. I need to give some additional information. My laptop came with Windows 7 pre-installed. It was produced just prior to the release of Windows 8. I found out that I had purchased my computer within a window of time that allowed me to get a free copy of Windows 8. I took advantage of this and went ahead and installed Windows 8. I have the product key for that. When I downloaded and installed Windows 8.1, I seem to remember somewhere in the EULA it stated that a new product key would be generated. This is the product key I'm looking for so if something goes wrong and I need to reinstall Windows I'll have the correct product key to enter.
just typical ... what suppose to work never works....
if the original win8 upgrade key ( which i have ) does not work...where do we get a new key to install 8.1? The keyword is "WHERE" in case you misunderstand my question and tell me an answer that does not have anything to do with the question.
I have the same problem. Downloaded Windows 8.1 from Store but no key was provided. The key revealed by Belarc is the old Windows 8 key which will not work when you try to create media for Windows 8.1. This will be needed if at some time you need to do a repair.
