How to install the Upgrade version to blank HDD


  1. Posts : 2
    Windows Server 2008
       #1

    How to install the Upgrade version to blank HDD


    • Downloaded the Student offer. (Pro x64 in my case)
    • made an iso following this guide: Make bootable iso from student d/l
    • Boot from DVD
    • Choose Custom install when prompted.
    • Go to Options, format the hard drive.
    • Skip the CD-KEY
    • Choose to NOT download updates
    • Let the OS install
    • Once done, Go activate Windows with your CD KEY
    • Wait 5 mins. Tadam, Congratulations, your copy is activated.


    That was tested on VMWare, after numerous other trials. Going to do that live now!
      My Computer

  2.    #2

    Worked also for me booting from Upgrade disk and formatting before install, but I put my activation key in upfront.

    Looks like they have shipped retail keys with the pre-ordered Upgrades. Thanks, MS
    Last edited by gregrocker; 23 Oct 2009 at 01:43.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 2
    Windows Server 2008
    Thread Starter
       #3

    Ok...now i feel retarded.

    Since i activated on a VM, it won't let me activate on live!!!!

    Is there anyway to get around this or I'm should go bang my head on a wall right now?

    EDIT:

    IF it happens to you, use the phone automated system to activate. It will work!
    Last edited by sephiros; 22 Oct 2009 at 23:16.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 14
    windows7 RC
       #4

    Hi sephiros,
    I ran into the same issue. I had to let it install with a blank key during setup, and then run the install a 2nd time (was able to do clean install 2nd time). I think setup scans somewhere on the PC for a partition with windows (activated or unactivated didn't seem to matter).

    Take a look here if you're curious on what I tried:
    Doing a Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version
      My Computer


 

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