This will show you how to create a system image (clone) backup of the entire hard drive or partition that Windows 7 is on, and any other selected drive or partition, to be able to restore the hard drive or partition at boot up back to the way it was at the time the backup image was created.
Backup Complete Computer - Create an Image Backup
Oh okay. Now I get it!I can still use the key again, right?
If full or Upgrade retail, the Home Basic can migrate to any computer of your choice as long as it is on only one and not currently being used to qualify for Anytime Upgrade.
If factory or builder's OEM, Home Basic key is locked to that motherboard but can be reinstalled as many times as you need with the Product Key on COA sticker or factory Recovery partition or disks. If not too late, I would save a Win7 backup image of Basic so reinstallation is not necessary if required in future.
Anytime Upgrade key is retail and can migrate to any qualifying machine. If you use a Full or Upgrade retail key to unlock Anytime Upgrade, it can also migrate to any machine without need for qualifying underlying OS (if Full) or if there is an XP/Vista to qualify it (if Upgrade).
If you follow Tews suggestion to save a backup image of the finished Pro upgrade, it should not require reactivation upon reimaging unless there is a change of hardware, but if it does you can first try the Pro Key. If not accepted, reinstall or reimage Basic to then Anytime Upgrade to Pro.
Hi tews,
So I use this backup thing in case my upgrade fails and then, for example, my windows fails to boot?
And I want to clarify some more..
My Home Basic is now activated. And then I upgrade to Ultimate. What key does it use now? The Home's or the Upgrade's? And would it still require activation after the upgrade?
I know my questions are really getting stupid but I would just like to know how things work before I proceed. OC case
When you anytime upgrade to Ultimate, you'll need to input the Ultimate key, that'll be the license on your computer from then on. No, no further activation will be required after the upgrade.
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