No Windows 8.1 product key.

[zinger]

I'm thinking I read where Microsoft automatically inserts the activation code when running the recovery drive for Windows 8 and if so, I might be in luck. I went to locate it and the wife has stored so many warranties and stuff in our filing cabinets, it would take a major miracle to find the papers on my old computer. If Microsoft doesn't automatically fill in the activation code/product key, is there a way to bypass that or maybe get another one?

[patio]

See Here...

[zinger]

Thanks Patio, I was hoping for better news but it is what it is.

[Mark.]

basically, with Win8 and 10, during the installation of the OS, when prompted for your key, click the "I don't have one, I'll insert it later" and when you are finally online, Microsoft will automatically check its server and activate you if you pass its checks.

[zinger]

Thanks Mark, I just finished reading an article stating the same and if that didn't work you could activate it over the phone. I'm pretty sure though if anything can go wrong it will.