[SOLVED] Do Windows 7 OEM Discs need a product key to be activated?

[smmm]

If I had a computer that I wanted to install or upgrade to Windows 7, could I use an OEM disc (such as this) to get Windows installed and activated? I have a feeling this is not the case, so would there be any other good ways to get Windows 7 (not Windows 10, I'm going for budget) activated without buying a sketchy $5 ebay key?

Thanks.

 

[USAFRet]

If I had a computer that I wanted to install or upgrade to Windows 7, could I use an OEM disc (such as this) to get Windows installed and activated? I have a feeling this is not the case, so would there be any other good ways to get Windows 7 (not Windows 10, I'm going for budget) activated without buying a sketchy $5 ebay key?

Thanks.

That is a Recovery disk. Has nothing to do with a license key, nor does it include one.

There is no "budget" difference between a valid Windows 7 license and a valid Windows 10 license.
(and all support for WIn 7 runs out in 102 days)

 

[smmm]

That is a Recovery disk. Has nothing to do with a license key, nor does it include one.

There is no "budget" difference between a valid Windows 7 license and a valid Windows 10 license.
(and all support for WIn 7 runs out in 102 days)

Alright thanks. So the only way to get a legit Windows key is to pay ~ $100?

 

[smmm]

I also am aware of the Linux option, but I'd prefer Windows.

 

[USAFRet]

Alright thanks. So the only way to get a legit Windows key is to pay ~ $100?

Yes.

For Windows 10, you can leave it Unactivated, accepting the minimal restrictions. It will run forever.
For Win 7, no license key gives you 30 days.

 

[smmm]

Yes.

For Windows 10, you can leave it Unactivated, accepting the minimal restrictions. It will run forever.
For Win 7, no license key gives you 30 days.

Ok thanks.