Sometimes you might need to retrieve the CD Key used to install Windows, or Office to determine if it has been legally purchased, or just for safe keeping.

Luckily, some programs exist that can help you do just that - retrieve license information from the registry, and allow you to copy it for safekeeping or for documentation purposes.

Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder

This is a small freeware utility that retrieves your Product Key (CD Key) used to install windows from your registry. It has the options to copy the key to clipboard, save it to a text file, or print it for safekeeping. It works on Windows 95, 98, ME, NT4, 2000, XP, Server 2003, Office 97, Office XP and Office 2003.

Download: Magic Jelly Bean Keyfinder

Homepage: Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder

Note: Some version of this tool does not seem to be able retrieve the Office 2003 CD Key. However, version v1.5B3 does have the capability of seeing the Office 2003 CD Key, and also enables you to directly change the existing CD Key to another one.

Note that this tool is NOT a cracking tool, and it does NOT generate a serial for you. All it does is to extract your existing CD Key.

CD Key Reader

CD Key Reader is another small tool that can find and display registration information for Microsoft tools and software that is installed on your computer (i.e. Windows, Office and so on).

Download: CD Key Reader

Homepage: CD Key Reader