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#1
Can I install Win 7 Pro from retail but using a DELL Product Key
The reason behind this is pretty simple (but a bit long-winded).
I own an OEM version of Windows 7 Professional 64 bit which is not tied to a manufacturer which I use in my computer that I built myself. The label states "Licensed for distribution only with a new PC".
A different friend last week bought a Novatech PC and yesterday I tried to install my old retail version of Vista Ultimate 64bit only to find out that the drivers would not run on that OS - I have to install Windows 7.
On ebay there is a 100%er (there are a lot of them) selling a Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64bit SP1 Full Install COA Product Key HP Stick which states:
HP genuine product key from a de-commissioned machine which will only activate One Desktop/Notebook. Key may show signs of wear. Please note this is not a multi licence key. HP Windows 7 Professional COA. Original Motherboard (Beyond Economical Repair - BER) & Certificate of Authenticity (COA) Licence Key Sticker for activation of software.
My question is, and I've tried to find a definitive answer on this, is in the title: Can I install Win 7 Pro from my own OEM disc but use the Product Key from the ebay purchase (should I go ahead of course)?
I am assuming I'd have to go through the laborious telephone process as I did on mine.
I have also read in some places this would not work and that I would have toi use a full retail version and then use the ebay key to register and activate - is there ant truth in this, or which would be a better option?
Thanks for any reply.