Re: product/CD/activation key

jonnyair wrote:
Is there a difference with "Product Key", "CD Key" and "Activation
Key"? I'm seeing these three terms used interchangeably and it's got
me confused as to what is what.



Yes, there is.

The Product *Key* is a 25-character alphanumeric string used to "prove" ownership of a legitimate license and is required to perform the installation, and is either stored on the CD packaging on a bright orange sticker that says "Do not lose this number," or is on a label affixed to an OEM computer. This term would be most synonymous to the less formal and unofficial term "CD Key," as it's used in conjunction with the installation CD

To my knowledge, there is officially no such thing as an "Activation Key," per se, although, when activating via telephone, one does have to enter a one-time, 42-character numeric Activation code.

To add a little confusion, the Product *ID* is a 20-character numeric (for retail and volume licenses) or alphanumeric (for OEM licenses) string created during the installation process and is prominently displayed on the General Properties tab of the My Computer icon. It is used to obtain/qualify for technical support (limited though that may be) from Microsoft.



I've been assigned the task to get our Licensing straight and I have a
bunch of XP retail boxes that I have no clue as to what machines are
installed with what. I found the utility "keyfinder.exe" from
searching this newsgroup and it works great but I'm a little confused
on the licensing terminology hence my question above.



Another thing to keep in mind: Product Keys are bound to the specific type and language of CD/license (OEM, Volume, retail, full, or Upgrade) with which they are purchased. For example, a WinXP Home OEM Product Key won't work for any retail version of WinXP Home, or for any version of WinXP Pro, and vice versa. An upgrade's Product Key cannot be used with a full version CD, and vice versa. An OEM Product Key will not work to install a retail product. An Italian Product Key will not work with an English CD. Bottom line: Product Keys and CD types cannot be mixed & matched.


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Relevant Pages

  • Re: reinstall XPP without original media
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    (microsoft.public.windowsxp.general)
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