Activate Windows 7 with OEM licensing?

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  1. Posts : 3
    Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit
       #1

    Activate Windows 7 with OEM licensing?


    I've recently installed Windows 7 Home Premium on an iMac using a friend's disc and product key. I however have not activated it yet. So my question is, if I buy the Windows 7 Home Premium OEM version, can I use that to activate the Windows I've already installed without having to uninstall and install it again with the proper disc?
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 1,618
    Win7 Home Premium x64 W10Pro&Home
       #2

    The new key should work...
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  3. whs
    Posts : 26,210
    Vista, Windows7, Mint Mate, Zorin, Windows 8
       #3

    Any COA sticker key will do.
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  4. Posts : 3
    Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit
    Thread Starter
       #4

    Okay, thanks! That's great to hear. So two more questions-
    1. Since I'm shopping for Windows 7 OEM licensing, some products say "(Branded)" What does a "branded" windows 7 mean?
    2. If I decided to reformat my hard drive, like, completely erase the partition I've made for Windows on my iMac and reinstall this Windows 7 OEM, will it let me?
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  5. whs
    Posts : 26,210
    Vista, Windows7, Mint Mate, Zorin, Windows 8
       #5
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  6. Posts : 21,482
    Win 7 x64 Home Premium (and x86 VirtualBox VM)/Win10
       #6

    Do NOT use 'branded' disks - they are either counterfeits, stolen, or OEM_SLP activation which will not work on anything other than the original PC.

    You should not be using OEM licenses in VMs- you run the risk of having re-activation disallowed if the virtual hardware changes. You need to use Full Retail Licenses for VMs.
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  7. Posts : 7,730
    Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 64-Bit
       #7

    If you insist on using an OEM DVD, please read this: Clean Install : Factory COA Activation Key

    A clean install will wipe your hard drive.

    On a personal note, I agree with Noel. I think you're better to use the less restrictive retail version of Windows, which you can transfer to a new computer after you've uninstalled it from the old one.
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  8. Posts : 3
    Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit
    Thread Starter
       #8

    Yes, I've realized the hassle of buying OEM so I decided to just get the full retail version. I was just trying to find a cheapest way to buy Windows 7 and I've learned that if the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Thanks!
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  9. whs
    Posts : 26,210
    Vista, Windows7, Mint Mate, Zorin, Windows 8
       #9

    trishajam said:
    Yes, I've realized the hassle of buying OEM so I decided to just get the full retail version. I was just trying to find a cheapest way to buy Windows 7 and I've learned that if the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Thanks!
    You can use an OEM, but buy it from a reputable place like e.g. Newegg. I use their OEMs all the time with no problems. A lot cheaper than retail.
      My Computer


  10. Posts : 21,482
    Win 7 x64 Home Premium (and x86 VirtualBox VM)/Win10
       #10

    whs said:
    You can use an OEM, but buy it from a reputable place like e.g. Newegg. I use their OEMs all the time with no problems. A lot cheaper than retail.

    There's a world of difference between 'can' and 'it's a good thing'!

    OEM licenses are not transferable to a new machine (even a new VM) under any circumstances, so if this one breaks even 2 minutes after activating an OEM license there is NO way to transfer it to another machine.

    ALSO, the OEM System Builder License - which you agree to when you open the pack and BEFORE you start the install - states specifically that installations MUST be for a third party. MS could theoretically prosecute anyone who installs an OEM license for their own use.

    OEM Licenses have no support from MS (OK, even retail license support only lasts for 90 days, but those 90 days are critical for most people) - the System Builder is expected to provide the support - which is another reason that they are so much cheaper than Retail licenses.
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