Do I need to keep a copy of the cd-key around or does the GoG servers install my personal cd key the next time I download it off their servers?

You need to do the process again with the same key they give you, If I remember well is modyfing the archive in NWN1 and using the special program Gog give you for NWN2

It is considered 'Wise' to keep a copy of CD Keys in a separate location (preferably, on an external HD). You can find your keys in the install directory (called nwncdkey.ini). Simply copy the file (with Windows Explorer), then paste it to your storage location. If you do have to do a re-install, simply copy/paste from Storage to the NWN install folder. Fast & Easy, neh?

Proteus

I'm not understanding what you mean by storage.

If I re-install and I haven't kept my cd-key file, will I be able to get it again without a lot of hassle? I have a file server and I can throw it on there easily, I'm just trying to find out if I need to do so.

If I'm understanding you, I'll need to apply the key again, which is fine, but does gog track the key for me? What happens if I request another multi-player key, will they give me the same one? Can I get it again without contacting their support staff?

1) Storage = the location (HD\Folder) where you copied your nwncdkey.ini file (Copy/Paste NOT Cut/Paste). As mentioned, I use a completely separate physical (i.e. External) HD for storage. I also store copies of the original downloaded files here, so I don't have to take the time to download them again if needed, or if 'Something Bad' happens to my main (C:\) drive, and I have to re-build my entire system (Been there, done that, didn't like it). At least I don't have to take the time to download all my important programs and games again. My external drive is strictly for storage of original files - no programs or games are run from it.

2) If I remember correctly, the cd key is included with the download. It may even be a generic key (everyone that downloads NWN from GOG gets the same key). I don't remember having to ask GOG for a key.

3) Not exactly. The key is loaded when you install the game (from the GOG download). Color me Paranoid, but I keep all cd keys for all programs (even the downloaded ones). I still have the original CD Keys that were issued with Neverwinter Nights written on the Install CD envelopes. When you register a shareware program (and pay $$ to get a fully operational or Ad-Free program) they will send you a 'License Key' by email. From your emailer - Select All/Copy then Paste into a Text program (like Notebook or TextPad), then SaveAs the text to the same storage folder you are keeping your original (copied) downloaded program. Just don't forget that you have done this. I just paid for a new TextPad License, forgetting that I had already bought one years ago. Silly me!