Using Old Activation Key for new install

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argent42

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Jun 22, 2011
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Hello I have decided to do my fist PC build, I choose to use my old hard-drive with a valid version of Windows 7 Home Premium (32-bit), got it from an upgrade program from Gateway. So my question is can I reinstall win-7 using my old key? If not how can I install win-7 without having to buy a new copy?
 
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No , that is not valid for a new build.You need a new OEM or Retail version for your new build !

OEM
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100006816%20600021084&IsNodeId=1&name=OEM

Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100006816%20600021083&IsNodeId=1&name=Retail

The oem version can only be used once on that system and no tech support from M.S. The retail version can be installed in multiple computers, one at a time. Meaning you can install then deinstall then install in another computer. Plus you can call or email M.S. for tech support.


This is the legit way to do it !

Welcome to the Forum !
 
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If you had an OEM you could reuse it, I do with my XP and Windows 7, I upgrade and give the components away (wipe all drives with a 3 pass wipe) and reuse. If I have to call Microsoft I say I replaced the motherboard, which I did.

The ones supplied by a commerical builder will only have that models specific hardware drivers and a special version of windows adapted for your computers use. You cannot use it on any other machine that you yourself put together.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116992&cm_re=windows_7_oem_64-bit-_-32-116-992-_-Product

You can also get a 32 bit if for some reason you want it for compatability.
 
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I did this exact thing and it worked fine I dont know why everybody is telling you you cant do it. I did the following. I used my old hard drive from a lenovo I purchased and all the other parts were new. Before taking the HDD out I deleted all the old drivers and shut down. Then I built the PC powered it up and installed all the drivers that came with the new motherboard. Windows then said my copy was not valid and I used the key that came on the side of the lenovo PC and it has worked just fine ever sense. As far as I see it if I purchase a pre built I paied for that copy of windows.

Now if you were to say build a new PC with a new HDD and use a friends windows install dvd then try to use the key so that you had windows on both PC's that would not work.
 
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I have done exactly what he is saying he wants to do and had no issues. Why should he pay more money for another copy of windows. As long as he is not going to try to try to have that key on 2 PC's he is fine.
 
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If you enable hidden drivers and then clear everything out befor removing the HDD, then build the PC and install all the proper drivers and enter the key that came with the original PC it works just fine. Thats how I shaved $100 off the cost of my current gaming PC, just dont try to use the same key on 2 different PC's and its fine.
 
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