Windows 10: To retrieve my product keys for win 7 & 8 operating systems

To retrieve my product keys for Windows 7 & 8 operating systems on my desktop. Misplaced the keys as a result of changing homes.

:)

 

retrieve original Microsoft operating system with product key

With Windows 8/8.1 The Product Key on preinstalled Operating Systems (HP, Acer, etc) is embedded in the BIOS in the Motherboard, so that the lost and/or worn C.O.A. Sticker problem is no more.

"Windows 10 Embedded Product Key Tool"

Windows 10 Embedded Product Key Tool

"We’re proud to introduce the immediate release of our newest utility for Windows users: the NeoSmart Technologies Embedded Product Key Tool. Designed for users of Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10, our embedded product key tool will retrieve and
display the Windows setup product key embedded in the BIOS or EFI, allowing you to store it for safe-keeping or use it to reinstall Windows with an official Windows setup image."

You can also use:

"Belarc Advisor - Free Personal PC Audit (Version 8.5c)"

Belarc Advisor | Belarc, Inc.

Or:

"Product KeyFinder"

KeyFinder | Magical Jelly Bean

 

Find original win 8 product keys used?


Digital entitlement only uses the Win 8 key for activation - thus the need for a generic Win 10 key that gets installed.

The Win 8 key does not get stored locally, it's merely used to generate a Genuine Ticket so that the activation server can activate with a digital licence.
Having said that,with an upgrade, as with the Windows.old folder retaining system files, the previous key gets retained and can be retrieved.

(BTW: that PS script only works on Win 8.1 and later for retrieving the OEM key from the firmware)

 

How to retrieve the old Win 7 product key that used to be on PC

If you're referring to a retail upgrade disc for Windows 7, the product key is lost, and you've wiped the drive where it was installed, there's no way to retrieve it.