Restore disks to install windows?

[mildgamer001]

I am going to build a gaming rig in the future when i have the money to, but windows 7 install disks are very expencive, but i already have a laptop with windows 7 AND all my programs. it constantly prompts me to make restore disks (then when i click yes without haveing a dvd in the tray it still starts the proses for some reason) so, if i got it to function properly and i made my 2 restore disks (it said it would take 2 disks for complete burn) could i use them to instal windows and my programs onto the new computer? would save me 130 or so dollars (if i could get it to work right) so it would be great if someone could confirm this.

 

[itzdanielp]

Unfortunately it won't work...

1, it's illegal. Microsoft's EULA says you can only install a copy of windows on 1 computer unless you buy an enterprise edition.

2. When you create restore disks it takes a snapshot of the hardware on the system, When you run a restore, it checks to see if the hardware is the same. If it isn't it won't continue the install.

Sorry bud, but unfortunately you are going to have to get a copy of Windows

 

[aford10]

^ Correct.

 

[mildgamer001]

omay thanks for the info, i figured something like that since when you get a new disk you have to put in the code that comes i9n the box when you buy it. also ive seen people say they dont need an os because they already have one (say from an old compuyter idk) so i figured i may as well ask.

 

[aford10]

If you've purchased a full retail version of Windows, you can reinstall it on a new computer. OEM versions are tied to the original hardware they are installed on, and upgrade versions need an OS installed first, to upgrade from.

 

[itzdanielp]

Yeah, you used to be able to use the code from another computer with like XP, but they have since changed that for new versions of XP as well as everything newer (Vista, 7...)

 

[mildgamer001]

i has computer with windows xp..... nah prob wouldnt work, anyhow so if i buy one retail install disk of windos 7 i could use the same disk on a new build after that one?

 

[itzdanielp]

Again EULA issues aside....

microsoft implemented changes that made sure that if a key was used once it could not be used again.

 

[aford10]

If you get a retail version of windows, yes, you can reinstall it multiple times (though, it's only legal to have it on one PC at a time, unless you get a volume license copy).

That's one reason why OEM versions are cheaper.

 

[mildgamer001]

well, i would only really need to use on one at a time, when i get new in like 4 years ill prob sell/give away/something idk the old one (os not included?)

 

[aford10]

Windows 7 will likely be valid for the life span of 2+ builds. If you plan to build a new system, or upgrade the guts of your computer in 3-5 years, it's worth the extra cost to purchase the full retail version, instead of an OEM version. That will allow you to use that same disc, to install on both systems (though, not at the same time, per license restrictions).

 

[mildgamer001]

im guessing the windows 7 home premium that you can buy for about 120-130$ is the retail correct? comes in a box with 32 bit and 64 bit disks (also could you use one on each system?

 

[mildgamer001]

well, hopefully i can just be a good little boy and buy a new disk for each computer, which after the build i hope to do in maybe a year i wont hav eot get another for a long time.

 

[aford10]

It will tell you if it's a retail version, or OEM (at least it should...if it doesn't, don't buy it),

Here's the Professional version (comes with both 32 and 64 bit discs)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116717&Tpk=windows%207%20pro
Here's the OEM version.
32 bit - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116989
64 bit - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116992