I did a search and didn't find any results concerning this problem. I've just built a new system and my Windows 7 disc won't boot, so I'm installing Windows XP so I can then install Windows 7 on top ...

It doesn't actually exist. If it does (I think it actually drops the cd-key and uses an hash of your hardware), it's encrypted.

The product activation algorithm was cracked “some time ago," The Register says, and in 2019 an open-source key generator was released that allowed for the printing of “endless Windows XP keys.” Last ...

Reddit users have shared a hack that can create working Windows XP activation codes, though you should think twice before booting up the two-decade old OS. Reading time 2 minutes Imagine it’s 2001.