Home Premium x64 OEM upgrade to Ultimate x64 Full?

I experienced similar frustration when I upgraded my motherboard. I had to call Microsoft to get Win 7 (OEM) activated.

As a result, I wanted to upgrage to the full retail version. I call Microsoft regarding this. Yes, it can be done, but the cost is quite high. Besides, I don't have faith in such upgrades. In the event of problems, I will have to deal with Microsoft's call center people which is a challenge by itself.

Your best bet is to leave the present OEM version alone, and get the retail version for your next build.

Sounds like a pain, are you sure?

I am not just sure; I am positive! Technically, the upgrade will work, but when you run into problems, try explaining all this to some tech guy sitting in a call center in a foreign land.

Leave the present OEM alone - get retail for the next new build. Much cleaner practical approach.

^+1

Most of the time, MS will allow you to reactivate with no questions asked. If they do ask, a simple "My motherboard failed and had to be replaced." will suffice.

Yes! Fortunately, in my case, I had upgraded my motherboard under EVGA's 'Step-Up' program. That is why I had to call MS and get Win 7 activated. And they told me that I would have to call them for activation for any future OS re-installs on this computer.

Usually the only question I've been asked is "Is this copy of Windows only installed on one computer?"... in which case a simple yes gets you up and running in no time.

Thanks for the info! This is good to know.