Windows 7 - Product Key Number - Change

@Brink,

This is TOTALLY WIZARD!

I'm in the process of setting up two machines for a client of mine - both machines identical HP OEM Windows 7 Home Premium boxes, so I set one up soup-to-nuts and then cloned the one drive to the other box.

It worked flawlessly. That is, until I remembered that this thing would probably barf on Genuine Windows, (or the first one would), which would have been a HUGE EMBARRASSMENT for me. . . So, I went to the computer's properties where I figured I'd just change the key - but there's no option there to do this. . . .

If it weren't for your timely advice, I'd probably be so hozed it's not funny.

Of course, I would not be surprised if the actual instal had a generic key that would work on a zillion identical boxes - but I'd rather not take that chance. Especially when the client is a lawyer!

Thanks!

Jim (JR)

You're most welcome Jim.

I don't blame you. Best to be safe than sued.

If it was the OEM-SLP key number that was used to activate them, then it will work to activate all of the exact same model numbers of that brand since that is the volume number that the factory uses to activate them with. This key number is also the one that is used when doing a factory recovery. This key number is not the same as the one on the COA sticker.

If it was the OEM-COA key number on the sticker, then yeah you would not have been able to activate with it on both computers. The OEM-COA key number is specific for activation of only the original computer.