Is this possible with one key?

[bublack33]

Here is the deal. I preordered Windows 7 (x64) using the student discount. I have a crappy laptop right now. I am planning on building a new computer somewhere between christmas and the summer.

My question is can I legally use the key to install the 32 bit OS on my laptop now, and later install the 64 bit OS on my new computer. I would trash the laptop or put XP back on it before I did this tho.

 

[The_Prophecy]

Yes you can, but only if you wipe out the laptop before installing Windows 7 on your new computer. Legally, one copy of Windows can only be installed on one physical PC at any given time.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

the prophecy nailed it!

 

[Guest]

But only if it's the Retail version and not an OEM version.

 

[amdfangirl]

Student should be retail.

 

[nukemaster]

But only if it's the Retail version and not an OEM version.

+1

But it still works in most cases.

 

[ulysses35]

MS are very strict on activation keys for their products, however there is a huge gaping hole in their security on this issue.

It is entirely possible to install windows XP (not sure on Vista) on several PC's using the same key. if the online activation doesnt work you end up speaking to someone on the end of a phone who will ask a few questions like how many pc's the software is installed on etc.... then give you a new activation number.

Now most folks are going to be honest - but you know there are going to be another few that wont be so honest.

 

[The_Prophecy]

Yes, this works on Vista as well. I believe I did it with my single copy 7 or 8 times and I was never denied activation even if 2 machines running with the same key were active at the same time (which was the case in several instances).

 

[amdfangirl]

Well, it is not legal.

 

[ulysses35]

agreed.... not legal - REGISTRATION should be compulsory not optional.

 

[The_Prophecy]

Well, it is not legal.

True. I certainly don't encourage others to do this, I'm am simply stating that it is possible.

 

[randomizer]

Student copies are always retail. Copies from MDSNAA do have extra licence restrictions though.