Solved Using the COA key - general question

[illiterate1]

Hello,

In a previous thread, it was mentioned that "....If you do, you can do a clean reinstall and use the key on the COA certificate to activate Windows...". I am assuming in my ignorance that this is the 'product key'. Does this imply that I can use a windows disk (of the same rating i.e. win7 32 bit for example) and activate that copy with the COA certificate on a machine, or is this not the way to go about it. It's not urgent, just something I would like to clarify should it ever be needed.

Thanks,

Illiterate.

 

[DavidE]

Yes, you can reinstall using the product key on the COA for your licensed version ...
See step #6 in this tutorial for a more detailed explanation with a picture ...
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/219487-clean-reinstall-factory-oem-windows-7-a.html

 

[Ranger4]

In addition to what DavidW7ncus has said, the Product Key that is attached to the computer is only applicable to that type. For example, if the Product Key is for Home Premium then you can only install Home Premium, but you can use either 32 bit or 64 bit versions.

 

[illiterate1]

Thanks for your help,

Just to ensure I've got it, the product key found on the machine is applicable to that machine but, I can use a Win7 disc (not necessarily belonging to that machine) and install using the product key found on that machine... Is that correct ? Can I use A Win7 64bit on a 32bit machine ?

Thanks,

Illiterate.

 

[BrightBlessings]

If your current OS is an OEM you can only install the OS bit version it came with.

Using win7 32-bit license key to activate a win7 64-bit installation - Microsoft Community

 

[illiterate1]

Thanks for the information,

I think that just about covers it.

Thanks,

Illiterate

 

[gregrocker]

If your current OS is an OEM you can only install the OS bit version it came with.

Using win7 32-bit license key to activate a win7 64-bit installation - Microsoft Community

The Shenan Stanley quote from the MS Community link is incorrect. 32- and 64-bit are interchangeable with any Win7 license including OEM. We do it all the time here. The respondent's attachment doesn't even display what he claims.

I will ask my colleague Andre De Costa who is also posting in that old thread to try to correct it for the record since I don't post there.

 

[illiterate1]

Thanks for pointing that out Gregrocker, You are a brilliant team on a brilliant forum.

Best Wishes.

Illiterate.