Reformatting Windows 7: Do I need to unregister the product key?

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Trez_YTR

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Dec 14, 2013
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Do I still need to unregister the product key of my W7 (it came on a disk) when I reformat my computer? Or can I just pop the cd then reboot?

ALSO: How do you format (1st time format) a computer from a USB? Is it as simple as plugging it in the USB port, turn on the comp and boom install?
 
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H
No. Just reformat and enter the same key when Windows asks for it. As long as the motherboard remains unchanged, you can keep using the same key after every reformat.

If you want to make a bootable USB stick that can install windows,
http://bootableusb.net/install-windows-7-usb-drive-easy-way/

Once you have the bootable USB stick ready, connect it to a USB port and reboot. While your computer is powering up, mash Esc, F10 or F12 (depending on what brand of board you have) and it will bring you the boot device selection screen. Select your USB stick and enter. Now you get to install Windows using the USB stick. The installation process will allow you to repartition and reformat any drives installed before installing the OS.
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cirdecus

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Feb 14, 2008
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If the windows 7 key and disc are OEM and you're simply reformatting the same PC you purchased it with, you'l be fine. If it came on a USB disk, you would simply look for a prompt while booting the computer to give you boot options and select the USB disk. OR, you can hit F2 or DELETE and change the Boot order/priority in the BIOS.

If it came on a CD/DVD rather than a USB disk, then just use that and follow the same instructions.
 
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Ironsounds

Ironsounds

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Jul 31, 2011
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Hello... There is no need to 'Un-register" But you will need to do a RE-register, within 30 days, your computer.
An updated Version that is available for DOWNLOAD and install is Windows 7 SP1 ISO, and can be installed with a 3gb or larger USB stick. This will save some time instead of going through a lot of Updates.
 
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huilun02

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Feb 29, 2008
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No. Just reformat and enter the same key when Windows asks for it. As long as the motherboard remains unchanged, you can keep using the same key after every reformat.

If you want to make a bootable USB stick that can install windows,
http://bootableusb.net/install-windows-7-usb-drive-easy-way/

Once you have the bootable USB stick ready, connect it to a USB port and reboot. While your computer is powering up, mash Esc, F10 or F12 (depending on what brand of board you have) and it will bring you the boot device selection screen. Select your USB stick and enter. Now you get to install Windows using the USB stick. The installation process will allow you to repartition and reformat any drives installed before installing the OS.
 
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