Can I use an OEM windows 7 product key on a newbuilt PC?

a2242364

Distinguished
Aug 31, 2011
112
0
18,690
This is my first time building a PC as my current PC is an OEM system. It did not come with an installation CD but it does however have a product key stuck onto the side of the case. If I get an installation CD from a friend, can I use my current product key to activate windows 7? If not, what will I have to do? Is there any way I can bypass the issue?
 
Solution
That OEM key is licensed to the original motherboard.
You might be able to call MS and convince them to authorize on new hardware, but they are under no obligation to do so.

belardo

Splendid
Nov 23, 2008
3,540
2
22,795
And Windows7 OEM is fairly flexible - as long a you only use 1 computer with 1 key. Since many mobos are only on the market for a year before they are replaced... so when a mobo gets fried, the system can be replaced.