Got a laptop with Win7 pirated copy with a bootloader, I think, just installs, updates, and works perfectly without ever asking for a key. I have a key and would like to legitimize my copy but can't figure out how. I think I need to disable the bootloader, but I don't know anything about that stuff. Maybe there's a setting in Windows somewhere. Any help would be appreciated.
Hello Rahl,
I would strongly recommend to do a clean install of Windows 7, and enter your legal product key during installation.
This way you will be starting from a fresh legal start, and not have to worry about any unknown malware that may be included with the pirated copy.
The Win7 installation disc doesn't ask for a key
Then you don't have an official retail type Windows 7 installation DVD/USB.
Where did you get the product key from?
It is my key for my computer. My hdd backup got formatted but the key is from the same version
Is this an OEM product key from a computer that came with Windows preinstalled?
If so, then you will not be able to activate it on another computer since an OEM key is permanently tied to the motherboard it was first activated on.
Same Computer, can't reinstall windows from a legit disc because the install was on my hdd and got formatted.
I want to legitimize this cracked copy with my valid key
Here you go then. You'll need to format and reinstall.
Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7
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