Install windows 7 using dvd from previous build on a new computer?

dmartinez78550

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Nov 17, 2015
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I built a computer in 2014 and purchased windows 7 for that build. I am going to be assembling a new computer in 1.5 weeks for my daughter. Can I use the same disc to install windows 7 on my daughter's computer and buy the key/serial from microsoft after I install it?

I dont want to have to order another dvd and wait for it to arrive just to use the serial/key for new build.

Thanks.
 
Solution
If it's OEM , NO if it's RETAIL YES.

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...
The only way to get another license/product key is to buy from a reputable seller (e.g. Newegg, Amazon, Superbiiz, whatever) and that will always come with an installation disk. Typically, you cannot buy only the license/product key by itself, not even from Microsoft.
 

Dark Lord of Tech

Retired Moderator
If it's OEM , NO if it's RETAIL YES.

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
 
Solution

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