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I don't use Builder's OEM because I don't want to be tied to hardware except on computers I buy if it's included.
As with Vista, I use the same Win7 all-versions installer to clean reinstall either retail, or factory OEM, and it always works.
Sometimes I have to make the activation robocall but have so far never needed to be elevated to a phone person.
On factory OEM starting with Vista they began using batch keys on the license stickers. I use Belarc Advisor to audit my actual key from mobo and wait to insert it til after install when it usually auto-activates.
When I have had to do the activation robocall, trading the numbers with the MS computer apparently sorts out the actual OEM product key from the batch key when the batch key is all I provide.
I understand this is beyond what most users want to do, but share it to illustrate that there is a way to clean reinstall to overcome corrupting bloatware legally using the key you purchased with the machine.
As with Vista, I use the same Win7 all-versions installer to clean reinstall either retail, or factory OEM, and it always works.
Sometimes I have to make the activation robocall but have so far never needed to be elevated to a phone person.
On factory OEM starting with Vista they began using batch keys on the license stickers. I use Belarc Advisor to audit my actual key from mobo and wait to insert it til after install when it usually auto-activates.
When I have had to do the activation robocall, trading the numbers with the MS computer apparently sorts out the actual OEM product key from the batch key when the batch key is all I provide.
I understand this is beyond what most users want to do, but share it to illustrate that there is a way to clean reinstall to overcome corrupting bloatware legally using the key you purchased with the machine.