Windows 7 - Windows 7 Different bit versions; Same Key

Through my university's engineering program I am able to get Windows 7 enterprise for free in the 32 bit and 64 bit versions. I want to be able to install the 32 bit version on my laptop and the 64 bit version on my desktop. However, both versions have the same product key. Will I be able to successfully install both of them on their respective machines using the same key?

Hello Silentcom, welcome to the Seven Forums.

One retail or OEM pack of Windows 7 includes both 32-bit and 64-bit install media so you can decide which version you want to use. You can install and activate either of them but not both; only one working copy per key at any given time.

If you install and activate (Windows 7 needs to be activated!) first let say the 32-bit version and later decide to replace it with 64-bit on the same computer, it's OK. Windows don't need to be "de-activated" but the when 32-bit is replaced with the 64-bit, the activation is kind of transferred to that later installed version. Same thing if you first install 32-bit to one computer and later 64-bit to another; when you activate the 64-bit, activation is transferred and the 32-bit is no longer activated.

So: One installation set includes both 32 and 64-bit versions and one key. You can install and activate one of those. If you want to use both, you need two keys.

Kari

If you can get it for free why not get a second copy?

Thanks, one other question. I have 32 bit professional running on my desktop right now. Could I be able to reinstall professional onto my laptop if I replaced it on my desktop with 64 bit enterprise? Or can a key only be activated once? Thanks!

I can only get one copy of either 32 or 64 for free.

One key one machine. They give you 32 or 64 DVD with each purchase because you can select either. Later on you could chose the other bit for another machince, but only one at a time

Yes,

You should be able to move the Professional license from one machine to another (if it is a Retail license) - but will probably need to call MS free activation line to do that.

You can then install 7 Enterprise on the machine you originally had Pro on - if you have an Enterprise license.

One other quick question. Is my professional key good for the 64 bit version of professional as well? Or will it only work with a 32 bit version? I'm thinking that it will, but I just want to check and make sure.

Key is good for either version. You can even change the version down the line, but one key one machine at a time.

Windows 7 key can be used on either 32 bit or 64 bit.

Awesome, thanks a lot for the help I appreciate it.