How to tell if my 7 has already been activated

Depending on whether they are OEM or retail discs the key can be used more than once so may not be a problem

From memory on 7 i think the key goes in towards the end of the process after most of the files are installed

vidguy said:

I have 7 boxes of 7 ultimate here at work. We dont use our PCs much anymore for various reasons. A number of them have failed and simply been left to the broken computer room, along with some Macs also!

I have one PC that Im getting back up and running and I'd like to upgrade it from XP doing a clean install of 7.
All of my 7 boxes have been opened, but our notes/ documentation don't show which have actually been installed.

Before going through the hassle of installing and then finding out the key has been used, can I check some other way?

Is there a way to install one of these assuming that it is no longer being used on a dead PC?

Any options?
At what point in the install will I enter the key, I dont recall. Can I find out right away if I start an install?

Thanks
James

When you go to Windows Activation, just type in a key and if activation fails, then try another key. If that keyfails activation, try the next key. You should find one that works.

i think retails can be used 3 times but only on one machine at a time

All Licenses are perpetual and can be used s many times as required.
OEM licenses are limited to activaion only on the original motherboard, or a warranty replacement thereof.
Retail licenses can be moved pretty much at will.

ONLY the Family Pack Upgrade (and Volume Licenses) can be activated on more than one machine at a time - in the case of normal Upgrade or Full retaillicenses, activation on a new machine will result in any prior installs being declared invalid.

After a certain number of internet activations on the same hardware, Windows will require telephone activation - and such activation may require operator input on MS's part. This is to reduce the chances of counterfeiting, and normally presents no problem with a genuine installation.

vidguy said:

I see. So there is no 1 to 1 relationship to that particular CD/file/data and the keys...
I'll give it a try as I'm pretty sure at least one of these was never used.
Thanks

NO Key found on any legitimate Windows CD can ever be activated.
All such Keys are 'Default Keys' which may allow installation, but cannot be activated at MS servers. There are no exceptions to this rule.