How To Install Another Win7 S/N after Original Install

gplea · 21 Jul 2015

So, I have a LEGIT (HONESTLY) copy of Win7 Ent. on 3 PC's that I use, but aren't actually mine. It so happens that I'm going to be moving, and thus, will likely have to give up those PC's. So, here's what I want to do. Of course, I'll upload all of MY data files to a cloud, which are on separate partitions. But as for the Win7 install on C:\, I want to reformat it so the owner of those PC's can buy their own Install DVD's and install them. Here's my real question. I've made the assumption that when they complete their install, that they will see all of the other partitions, as well as THEIR files. Am I correct?

Thanks,
GPL

gregrocker · 23 Jul 2015

Delete all partitions using Diskpart Clean Command which clears the partition table and boot code, or if you want it more securely overwritten so it can't be recovered except by forensics use Clean All command (takes approx an hour per 320gb).

I don't understand the concern for wiped hard drives which will be used by another person. Any lettered partition should be visible once Win7 is installed. If necessary add a drive letter in Disk Mgmt. Does this answer your question?

AddRAM · 24 Jul 2015

Really, why wouldn`t you wipe the entire drive to unallocated space ?

But if we`re reading you wrong and you WANT the partitions, then yes they will be there and they will be able to see the data, as long as you don`t format those other partitions, they will be fine.

gplea · 03 Aug 2015

Thanks for the responses.

I need to wipe the C:\ drive so I can "release" (or whatever buzz word you use) the S/N that is licensed to me, personally, and the PC's owner can buy their own DVD of Win7, or whatever. That way I can use that license for another PC if I need to.

I'm not going to erase all of what's on the other partitions because he may want to keep those files.

Does that answer everyone's questions?

Thanks.