Question: How can I retrieve my Windows key when I can not access my computer? (How can I retrieve my Windows key offline) (How can I retrieve my Windows key with a Linux Disk)

Answer:
First, there is no good way to do this using a Ubuntu or Linux Live disc. Sorry.
But, there is an easy way to do this.

Note: Most computers have the key on them somewhere in the form of a sticker. Make sure that the sticker Windows version matches the version installed on the computer to avoid upgrade confusion. If this sticker is missing, proceed using the key.

You can use Hirens Boot CD to retrieve your Windows Keys offline. Hirens Boot CD has MiniXP on it, which is how we will address retrieving your key.

You can download Hirens Boot CD here. For more information of what software is on the CD, click here. For instructions on how to make a bootable USB for Hirens Boot CD, click here (medium difficulty) .

Instructions:

(Ease: Medium. 3/10 difficulty.
Download and burn the newest version of Hirens Boot CD (in our case, it was version 14.0). Download link is above.

Upon booting of the CD, select the option to boot into “Mini Windows Xp”. This will take a moment to load, especially from the CD.

From the MiniXP Desktop, double-click the “HBCD Menu” shortcut.

Select, from the menubar, Programs > Passwords / Keys > Product Keys >
Select XP Key Reader for reading XP Keys, or ProduKey for others.

For XP  Key Reader:
On the XP Key Reader window, click “Browse” and select the drive with your Windows installation, and select the Windows folder.
Then, on the main program window, click “Read Remote Key”

For ProduKey:
When you open ProduKey, a Window will appear. Choose “Load the product keys from the external Windows directory” and click “Browse”.
Select the drive with your Windows installation, and select the Windows folder.
Click OK at the bottom of the source window. (Tip: If your screen is small, you may not be able to see the OK button. Simply press ENTER.)

Wait a moment, and the keys will load.

Tip: Write your keys down twice. If you write the key down wrong by accident and reformat, you may be out of luck for getting the key back again.