What happens if you don't register?

NobodyIsHome · 12 Mar 2016

I have an old computer and a spare Windows 7 disc. I want to install Win 7 on this computer and use it for a couple of programs only, so it will not be connected to the internet. My plan is to simply install 7 from the disc and not do any updates on it. Since it won't be connected to the internet, it doesn't need any of the updates (as far as I know).

Now my question is this: what will happen to my install of 7 if I don't register it? Will it completely stop working? If that's the case, then I guess I will have to connect it to register, and then disconnect it, but I'd rather not do that, even though it won't have to be connected for too long.

EDIT:
I guess I mean "activate it." Not sure what the difference is between activating windows and registering windows.

whs · 12 Mar 2016

As long as you are not connected, nothing will happen.

ThrashZone · 13 Mar 2016

Hi,
Yes you will need to activate windows and why would you not

Until you do the install gives you 3 days before auto activation once that fails no telling but I've read you do have 30 days before you have to activate windows
Not exactly sure what happens after that you'd be in the pirate section

Activation is simple and all that is required and it usually only takes a minute or two to do once connected to the internet
After if you wish to never connect to the internet or update it's no big deal windows is already activated.
Just change your windows update setting to never check for updates before you connect to the internet and activate windows.

strollin · 13 Mar 2016

Here is a link to an MS FAQ regarding activation:Activating Windows: frequently asked questions - Windows Help

It says you have 30 days to activate or you won't have access to all of Windows features. I've never used a system for more than 30 days without activation so I can't say what features you would lose.

NobodyIsHome · 14 Mar 2016

Thanks everyone for your answers. I had forgotten that you can activate over the phone, which I now just did. So I guess I'll never find out what exactly would have happened.

ThrashZone · 14 Mar 2016

Hi,
How would the install on the machine know

AddRAM · 15 Mar 2016

You don`t ever have to update windows, but some things may not work, but cross that bridge when you come to it.

You`ve activated windows and that`s all that matters, now enjoy your PC and keep us informed, and Welcome to Seven Forums :)

Any problems we`re always here for ya :)

NobodyIsHome · 15 Mar 2016

ThrashZone wrote:
Hi,
How would the install on the machine know

NobodyIsHome · 15 Mar 2016

AddRAM wrote:
You don`t ever have to update windows, but some things may not work, but cross that bridge when you come to it.

I only use this computer for one program, so I don't anticipate ever having any problems.