Apparently I need a new copy of Windows for my SSD?

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ringmany

ringmany

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Nov 6, 2014
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Hi everybody,

I recently purchased the Samsung 840 EVO SSD. I installed it onto my PC with a Windows 7 .ISO I got from PC world, as I do not have the original CD (I got it from a friend 3 years ago). I also have a HDD with my original Windows 7 still installed in my PC as storage.

When I tried activating windows it wouldn't let me. There was no option to activate via phone either. I called Microsoft Tech Support and they told me that my product key was no longer valid and that I would have to purchase a new copy of Windows.

I thought that so long as it was the PC I could use my original Windows key for it? But apparently I need a new product. I don't understand why my windows key would no longer be valid?

Does this mean that I now have to go and purchase a Windows 7 professional CD, reinstall it onto my SSD and then activate it that way?

Also, I'm going to be upgrading my motherboard from an AMD to Intel, will I also have to activate it then?

Thank you.
 
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Mr5oh

Mr5oh

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Did they give you a reason that it was no longer valid? I would push the issue, a hard drive replacement does not warrant invalidating your OS license.

A new motherboard will though, so I wouldn't buy Windows until you have your new motherboard / PC.

All you need is the license key, so if you already have Windows 7 Pro installed, you can just use the key that came with the new CD.
 
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Dark Lord of Tech

Dark Lord of Tech

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With windows 7 OEM the license is tied to the first motherboard it's installed on.With Windows 8.1 you can move it to another build when you are done with this one , but only one computer at a time.With Windows 8.1 you can change all the hardware you want including the motherboard.


Windows7-2.jpg



OEM versions of Windows 7 are identical to Full License Retail versions except for the following:

- OEM versions do not offer any free Microsoft direct support from Microsoft support personnel

- OEM licenses are tied to the very first computer you install and activate it on

- OEM versions allow all hardware upgrades except for an upgrade to a different model motherboard

- OEM versions cannot be used to directly upgrade from an older Windows operating system

Microsoft.com ^


OEM vs. Retail

OEM Windows 7 comes preinstalled on computers. This is the cheapest way to buy windows. Large PC manufacturers like Dell, HP etc. (collectively called royalty OEMs) install windows on millions of such PCs. The main characteristics of such systems are:

The license agreement and support agreement is between you and the PC makes.

Activation by the end user is not required. Windows is preactivated at the factory by the OEM using images and standard SLP keys.

Your copy of windows is locked to that PC. The license is not transferable.

OEM system builder is what you get when you buy from say Newegg or from a local "white box" vendor. It too has the characteristics of Royalty OEM windows. Although it is possible for an individual to buy a System Builder copy, the license requires that the software be installed using the OPK (OEM preinstall kit) and then resold.

Retail version is what you buy from a retailer like Amazon or Bestbuy. Its a full price version that comes packaged in a retail box with a retail product key. It has to be activated online via MS servers using the key on the box, it is not tied to the PC it was first installed on, though it can only be used on a single computer at a time. And, MS directly provides the support for it. It is also more expensive than OEM copies.

As far as functionality is concerned, theres no difference between any of the versions above, given any specific edition (i.e. between OEM pro and retail pro, or between OEM ultimate and retail ultimate).

sevenforums.com


Windows8-1_zps0f2f36f7.png



Windows 8 is a whole different ballgame.

License agreement for the transfer of a Windows 8 license
http://personaluselicense.windows.com/en-US/default.aspx
 
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ringmany

ringmany

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I tried asking why it wasn't valid but I didn't get a response. They just said I need to chase up with the OEM because my key is "blocked". I can't get the original CD because it was installed by a family friend 3 years ago I no longer have contact with. Although I do have the original product and serial key, which do not work.

I'm getting a new CPU and motherboard in the future when I can afford it, maybe a few weeks. But my activation runs out in a day. I really don't have to have to spend £30 on a new product and install it as I'm on a budget.
 
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Mr5oh

Mr5oh

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Sounds like your "friend" most likely used the key in other places then.

 
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ringmany

ringmany

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I prefer Windows 7 over 8. I think I'l go back to using my HDD drive with windows on it, then I'l buy a new copy of windows 7 when I get my new MB and CPU. Then hopefully I can upgrade to Windows 10 in the future for free.
 
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