How do I find my Windows Digital Product Key?

[Edicken]

My hard disk failed.  I replaced the 1 TB hard disk with another 1 TB hard disk.  Everything else in the laptop is original.  I got a set of recovery DVDs.  I ran the recovery DVDs several times, but the recovery fails.  I'm going to install the OS and drivers manually.  How do I find the digital product key?

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

Here is how you can reinstall W8.1:

Install W8.1 by creating the Microsoft installation media, using another Windows PC...You want W8.1 64 bit. 

If you live in an EU country, you probably will have to use the W8.1 N ISO file download.

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows8ISO

Only if you are asked to enter a product key during the installation process, use this generic key.

This is the generic key for W8.1 'standard.'

 334NH-RXG76-64THK-C7CKG-D3VPT

If you had to enter the generic key, manually change the generic product key to the W8.1 'standard' key in your PC's BIOS in the PC settings menu.

After you get W8.1 installed, and you had to manually enter the generic product key, you will need to run the free utility I zipped up and attached below, that will show you show the W8.1 product key in your PC's BIOS.

I have also zipped up and attached below, the Microsoft tool which hopefully will transfer the ISO file to a DVD or usb flash drive so it is bootable.

Then you can install the available drivers and software from your PC's support page.

https://support.hp.com/us-en/drivers/selfservice/HP-ENVY-17-Notebook-PC-series/5425742/model/6842270

[Edicken]

I appreciate the quick response.  I must be missing something.  I don't see the attachment or the link for the utility to find the WDPK.  Please clarify.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

Look on the lower bottom left side of my first reply to you.

Right above the blue 'Reply' button, you will see two paperclip icons with the file names next to them.

[Edicken]

Thank you for all of your help!

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Anytime.

Glad to have been of assistance.