I'm forever formatting computers and reinstalling with the nightmare of trying to figure out which product key belongs to which version of windows. Now I know in most cases when they come from Dell or other manufacturers, that its going to be OEM, but its not always the case. I find myself having to start a virtual machine and trying different types of versions of windows until it allows me to continue.

I was wondering if anyone has any tips or tricks for an easier method to figure this out?

Thanks for your time,

My way is to make a backup copy of the OS disc and write the Key on the disc itelf. Never have to worry about kosing the key for that specific disc or os. Another way I found is to check the tiny print on the outer rim of the disc if it is labeled. I have seen where it actually says "FOR RELEASE WITH BLAH,BLAH,BLAH" Hope this helps.

Yes but when you get a customer bringing you the computer, they dont provide the CDs 95% of the time.

Was just wondering if there was any software that could tell you the version the key is for.

Thanks for your reply.

What about the license key that is usually glued to the computer? Unless you have customers that for some reason remove it.