Can I use my Windows 8 install disc on multiple computers?

[BudLightHereWeGo]

I'm building a second computer for a friend and I'm in need of an operating system for it. I'm looking at buying a license key online for it and I was wondering if I could use my old windows 8.1 install disc and use the license key I bought online with each other. All help is appreciated!

 

[knight_of_baawa]

As long as you have a second license--and as long as your disc is not manufacturer-specific--it is legal. But if you are using a Win8 disc with an 8.1 key, it will not work. You will need to download an 8.1 image.

 

[Indanao]

[strike]Never mind , " legal "[/strike]. Question is will 8.1 Disc with Key work on two computers at the same time?

 

[knight_of_baawa]

We HAVE TO worry about "is it legal" here. That's why I worded it as I did. So long as he has a second valid license: it will work and will be legal. If he does not: it is not legal. And as this is not a place to discuss that: we can't discuss it. Understand?

 

[COLGeek]

Tom's Hardware forums do not support any form of software piracy. None. Period.

If a user has a legal license, they may use Windows. There is no free version (beyond a trial period).

 

[COLGeek]

BTW, typically, one license only works on one PC at a time. Exceptions are volume licenses. The OP is not using one of those.

 

[knight_of_baawa]

Right, and the OP specifically stated that he would be buying a second key.

 

[COLGeek]

The license is not tied to the installation media, so borrowing a DVD/USB drive is okay. The point about using an 8.1 product key with 8.0 install media (or vice versa) is also correct.

You can always install 8.0 first and then update to 8.1 for free, BTW.

 

[Indanao]

Sure you can install on more than one computer.

 

[BudLightHereWeGo]

I'm going to buy a legal copy, that's what I was informing when I said "buying". No worries, thanks for the help.