How do I find the product key for Windows 8.1

Thanks, that's what I thought. I was getting that annoying MS nag bar across the screen for updating to 8.1. I was pleased with 8.0 but finally clicked the upgrade just to stop the nagging.

It was seamless, no product key needed.

My annoyance now is not having the product key, but thanks to belarc site, got it.

I am still angry with Dell for failing to help on this.

They don't give the key because there was no value in having it.

Things have changed slightly but essentially the key would only be valid for the image pre-installed by the manufacturer, it will not activate ANY disk based install.

Even with Windows 7 which had a readable COA label the key used by the manufacturer to build the system was not the same as appears on the label.

Thanks, I understand all that. But...if you make a downloadable USB image from MS, they specifically state it cannot be used without the product key.

How can there be no value in the key? According to MS,  I cannot recover without it.

Thanks, I understand all that. But...if you make a downloadable USB image from MS, they specifically state it cannot be used without the product key.

How can there be no value in the key? According to MS,  I cannot recover without it.

The key is embedded in the UEFI system BIOS. If you use the correct "Edition" of Windows 8.1 "Edition" with Update 1 installation media the key will be automatically input and you will be taken to the license agreement screen. If the wrong Edition is selected you will be asked for a product key. On the guide I linked to earlier I highlighted all the common difficulties and workarounds users are experiencing with this are due to the many sub editions Microsoft made and the lack of clear distinction between the labels.

As I said the situation is slightly varied because if the problems you have highlighted. However the point is a new PC comes with Windows pre authenticated using a special key issued to each manufacturer. This bypasses a key function of the anti-piracy methods used by Microsoft so they blocked any attempt to use such a key with a DVD based install all of which required authentication after installation. With the key embedded in the BIOS presumably considered unhackable local authentication becomes viable.

You cannot blame Microsoft entirely. Leaving aside their actual wealth a vast sum was being lost by software pirating which they have every right to try and reduce. Where they have failed is the fact that these methods impinge on legitimate users as well. They seem to struggle at the moment with joining up their processes. Reset is great but it should not require ANY files from another source which you might not have.