Transfer windows from one computer to another?

[Benboy17]

Is there a way to somehow use an existing windows computers copy of windows. Instead of having to buy a new copy?

 

[unksol]

if it has anything before windows 8 and is not a retail edition, which almost none are, then no. it is tied to the computer it is on and it would violate your license to do so

 

[ex_bubblehead]

Only if you have a retail copy of Windows can you transfer the license from one computer to another. If you purchased your computer with Windows already installed then it is tied to that computer and cannot be reused on another.

http://cdn-static.zdnet.com/i/story/60/34/001514/license-and-media-matrix.png
http://www.zdnet.com/blog/bott/what-microsoft-wont-tell-you-about-windows-7-licensing/1514