Can I install from EDU disk & activate with retail keys

[jbarr]

I have 4 copies of Windows 7 Home Premium on pre-order that should be delivered within the next few days.

I also purchased the $30 "Educational" download of Windows 7 Home Premium, downloaded it, and created a DVD.

I was able to install the EDU version without incident on one PC, however I haven't activated that install yet.

My question is this: Can I use the EDU install DVD to upgrade/clean install my and my family's PCs without activating yet, then just activate later using the RETAIL keys once they arrive?

I'm not trying to cheat anything--ultimately, I will have all proper licenses. It's just that the timing is such that I have the opportunity to do several installs tonight, and it would be helpful if I could install now using the EDU DVD and activate with the RETAIL keys later.

 

[Tews]

Hi Jbarr, welcome to the forums!

As long as the versions are the same, you can go ahead and perform the installs then activate them as you suggestged...

 

[jbarr]

Hi Jbarr, welcome to the forums!

As long as the versions are the same, you can go ahead and perform the installs then activate them as you suggestged...

Cool! The version I downloaded was 32-bit Home Premium and 2 of the 5 installs will be 32-bit Home Premium, so that will work just fine.

BUT, 3 of the 5 are 64-bit machines, and though 2 of them would work just fine with a 32-bit install, one has to be 64-bit Home premium, so I'll either need to find a 64-bit Home Premium download from somewhere, or I'll just have to wait on that install.

Thanks!!!

 

[DeaconFrost]

You'll need to delete the ei.cfg files from the disc so they give you options to install any version. However, you'll still need the right platform...meaning you'll need an x64 to install x64, etc. If it is the full version media, they should accept any key, provided the key and the version match...just the same as it's been with Vista. There's no OEM disc vs retail, etc, like there was with XP.

 

[Tews]

The upgrade will include both 32 and 64bit versions... Today is your lucky day!

 

[jbarr]

The upgrade will include both 32 and 64bit versions... Today is your lucky day!

BUT, are you referring to the upgrade pre-order DISKS or the EDU download files?

 

[Tews]

Im sorry, I missed the Digital River part ... looong day.. then you will need to get the retail version for both versions... the edu only supplies the one version...