how do i go about finding my Serial Number in windows XP? When i had WinME it was listen in the registry. But i cannot find it in xp, and heard that it was not viewable? is that true? I am trying to make a backup CD you see, i posted a message yesterday trying to find the I386 folder as well......so all is not going well for me trying to make this backup so if anyone can help me locate my serial number, i will be very happy! Thanx Slash

The key I found in the regestry was not the same key that is on my retail box or the key I used. It is under WPA in the regestry

Even if you find it, you'll find it is encrypted and no use as it is - you need a special Program to unencode it There is a 'freebie' somewhere to do this Someone will tell you

The serial number is not required to make a back up of your system. If you are trying to make an installable copy just write down the number from the org CD. Oh you don't have the org CD, then stop trying to priate the OS. That will make MS do even more stupid things to try to copy protect future releases.