Fresh Install, probably OEM key from registry

Doctor Wrex · 04 Dec 2015

So I'm trying to wipe my computer and do a fresh install of windows.

I got the PC second-hand, so I didn't put the install of windows on it.

I got the product key from the registry, there is no sticker. This might be an important detail.

Windows tech support guy says it is a valid key, but might be OEM or something, and directed me to download from the MSDN website, which doesn't seem to want me to download anything without a paid subscription. Maybe I'm just being a noob, tell me if that's the case.

My main question is this: Using this key, can I activate a windows ISO that I download from... wherever? I'm not gonna torrent it or anything sketchy, I just need to know if it's going to work on any ISO of the same version I'm running, or otherwise uh... what do?

Thanks loads!

georgeks · 05 Dec 2015

Yes, the serial number will work for the same edition of Windows-worst thing that can happen is you will have to activate it manually using the toll-free number provided. I have to caution you however, that Microsoft clearly states that the COA label has to be attached to the system as well.

AddRAM · 05 Dec 2015

Probably not, it`s most likely the factory mass activation key you found and will not work to activate windows.

You can always reinstall windows and try that key, that`s up to you.

Or buy Windows 7 Pro.

Microsoft Windows 7 Professional SP1 64-bit - Operating Systems - Newegg.com

mitchell65 · 05 Dec 2015

Rather than installing Windows 7 only to find that your licence key doesn't work you can check it out here:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/soft...nload/windows7
Just select your version of Windows 7 and enter your licence key in the box. If it fails to register then the chances are it wont activate any installation of Win 7! If it does register then download the ISO which will be totally free of any torrent junk!

bigmck · 06 Dec 2015

mitchell65 said:

Rather than installing Windows 7 only to find that your licence key doesn't work you can check it out here:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/soft...nload/windows7
Just select your version of Windows 7 and enter your licence key in the box. If it fails to register then the chances are it wont activate any installation of Win 7! If it does register then download the ISO which will be totally free of any torrent junk!

I am not sure what that site uses. It did not show that my System Builders Key was good, but it clearly is. It also does not show OEM keys as good, but they are. If the OP has a valid OEM key, then I would say install Win 7 and try to activate with the Key. If a Microsoft Phone Number pops up, you might have to call for an activation. Odds are you will be talking to a recording and not a real person. Good chance you will get an activation on the call. The worst that can happen is it does not work and you have only lost an hour of your life making a Win 7 Install. Go by this tutorial for the install.
Clean Install Windows 7