• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
Are you having HotKey issues? Click here for tips and tricks.
Check out our WINDOWS 11 Support Center info about: OPTIMIZATION, KNOWN ISSUES, FAQs, VIDEOS AND MORE.
Locked

‎03-19-2023 01:14 PM - last edited on ‎03-19-2023 02:31 PM by Retired

HP Recommended
Product: HP All-in-One - 22-b016 (ENERGY STAR)

I bought a computer and then my hard drive died and I replaced the hard drive. I lost the windows key and now I want to reinstall windows again and I need the key.  My serial code is [Personal Information Removed].

1 REPLY 1

‎03-19-2023 01:33 PM

HP Recommended

Hi:

 

The Windows product key is encrypted in your PC's BIOS.

 

You don't need the key to reinstall W10.

 

You can use the HP cloud recovery tool and a 32 GB USB flash drive to create a bootable USB recovery drive that will reinstall Windows, the drivers and the software that originally came with your PC.

 

Here is an info link for how to use the utility.

 

HP Consumer PCs - Using the HP Cloud Recovery Tool in Windows 11 and 10 | HP® Customer Support

 

Since you have to use the utility on another PC, you will need to enter your PC's product number in the tool's search window in order to proceed to make the recovery media.

 

Your PC's product number is:   V8N96AA#ABA

Was this reply helpful? Yes No
Warning
Be alert for scammers posting fake support phone numbers and/or email addresses on the community.
If you think you have received a fake HP Support message, please report it to us by clicking on "Flag Post".
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the Terms of Use and Rules of Participation.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Ask the community
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.