Windows 7: Old Computer Need New Windows Key

Good Day All !
I have an older unused desktop running Windows7 (upgraded from Vista). I went and installed the same Windows7 onto my laptop using the same key. Although technically illegal I didn't use the desktop at all, and figured using the same Windows7 on my laptop would be OK. I have a buyer for the old desktop, and I want to reformat, reinstall my Windows 7. I don't want any issues down the road for the buyer regarding same Windows setup on 2 systems (my still operating Laptop, and sold desktop). Can I install Windows7 with my present software, and then pay for a key change ? Or would it be better just to purchase a new Windows7 install? I'm not getting much for the computer, so I'm trying to save as much as I can. Thanks inadvance !

Yes, that would be the best way.

However you are going to do it, giving old PC away without Windows license (product key) or bying one for the new owner, here's how you can prepare your PC to be sold: Windows 7 Installation - Prepare PC to be Sold

Kari

I would sell it with the OS which came preinstalled to preserve the machine's full value, using the Product Key on the COA sticker. Burn the ISO from here with ImgBurn at 4x speed, boot DVD, deleting all partitions during install: Vista ISO download

If the new owner wants Windows 7 have them either do an Upgrade or Clean Install or buy a key to insert now at the link at Control Panel>System - then delete all User folder content and change User Account name in Control Panel.

This way when you start up your desktop it won't reject activation, or if it does you can easily reinsert your key.

The way this transpires is that when you activate with a key that has been used previously you're channeled to a robocall which asks you how many PC's this copy of Windows 7 is installed upon, to which you can only reply 1 to get activated. This gives MS authorization to deactivate it on any other PC which starts up with that key.

If I was you I would just reinstall vista and use the key it came with in the first place instead of buying another windows 7 key.

Really, let the buyer upgrade if they want to.

Thanks To All For The Great Suggestions... Have A Great Day !!