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    Upgraded from Vista to Win 7 - can i use my vista key on another pc?

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by Happy8Day, Jul 23, 2010.

  1. Happy8Day

    Happy8Day Newbie

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    I recently took advantage of Microsoft's deal to upgrade from Vista to Windows 7. I received a Win 7 activation key, now i wonder if that is 'married' to my Vista key, or if i could install vista on another machine, using the old key.

    any thoughts?
     
    Happy8Day, Jul 23, 2010
    #1
  2. KLF

    KLF NBR Super Modernator Super Moderator

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    Simple answer would be no. Only retail boxed licenses are transferable to other computers.

    Longer answer:
    Most probably your computer has OEM Vista license, that is not transferable to another computer (the reason why it was cheaper than Retail box).
    Using Upgrade version of Win7 does not free the previous license, you are still using the "upgraded OS" license-wise.

    Technical answer: 95% chance it'll work. However you could be royally screwed when you want to do reinstall some day.
     
    KLF, Jul 23, 2010
    #2
  3. timtravel42

    timtravel42 Notebook Virtuoso

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    You cannot reuse the old vista key, and you are not allowed to discuss using it here (besides asking if it is allowed)
     
    timtravel42, Jul 23, 2010
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