Chuck Lynch
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Hi. My dell computer completely died. Im in the process of building a new computer. Can i use the windows 7 disc on my new computer
📎 AI Summary:
The thread discusses whether a Windows 7 disc can be used to install on a new computer after the original Dell PC has died. The main consensus is that if the Windows 7 was pre-installed on the old computer, it likely has an OEM product key that is non-transferable, requiring the purchase of a new license for the new machine. The original poster clarifies he purchased the discs separately, but multiple contributions point out that without transferring the product key — which is difficult if the original PC is completely dead — using the same disc on a new computer may not be possible without obtaining a new license. Overall, the conversation underscores licensing restrictions and suggests contacting Microsoft for potential solutions.
The thread discusses whether a Windows 7 disc can be used to install on a new computer after the original Dell PC has died. The main consensus is that if the Windows 7 was pre-installed on the old computer, it likely has an OEM product key that is non-transferable, requiring the purchase of a new license for the new machine. The original poster clarifies he purchased the discs separately, but multiple contributions point out that without transferring the product key — which is difficult if the original PC is completely dead — using the same disc on a new computer may not be possible without obtaining a new license. Overall, the conversation underscores licensing restrictions and suggests contacting Microsoft for potential solutions.
Solution
davidhk129
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First and foremost, you have to have a valid Win 7 product key for installation.
Did the Win 7 come pre-installed in the Dell computer ?
If yes, the product key is an OEM key. It is NOT transferrable.
Which means, you'll have to buy a new license.
If you buy a new license, it will come with an Installation DVD and a new product key. That makes your original Dell Win 7 disc irrelevant.
Besides, it is not usual that a computer with pre-installed Win 7 also comes with an installation disc. It could be a recovery disc which will be no good for new installation.
So, if you provide more info..........
Did the Win 7 come pre-installed in the Dell computer ?
If yes, the product key is an OEM key. It is NOT transferrable.
Which means, you'll have to buy a new license.
If you buy a new license, it will come with an Installation DVD and a new product key. That makes your original Dell Win 7 disc irrelevant.
Besides, it is not usual that a computer with pre-installed Win 7 also comes with an installation disc. It could be a recovery disc which will be no good for new installation.
So, if you provide more info..........
Chuck Lynch
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I upgraded it from Xperia to windows 7. I bought the disks from a store
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davidhk129
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OK. That is an Installation DVD. and a retail version of Win 7 product key.
But you still have one insurmountable problem..... a valid product key.
The rule is .......one product key, one install.
I am assuming that you did not uninstall Win 7 before the computer died..........
Although your Dell has " died ", as far as Microsoft is concerned, the Win 7 product key is still considered installed.
Therefore you cannot use the key again. If you do, you will get the error message such as " product key is in use ", and you won't be able to activate the new install.
You can try calling Microsoft and explain the situation. They might issue you a new product key.........IF you are lucky.
Otherwise, you are stuck with buying a new license.
That is as far as I know how to assist you.
But you still have one insurmountable problem..... a valid product key.
The rule is .......one product key, one install.
I am assuming that you did not uninstall Win 7 before the computer died..........
Although your Dell has " died ", as far as Microsoft is concerned, the Win 7 product key is still considered installed.
Therefore you cannot use the key again. If you do, you will get the error message such as " product key is in use ", and you won't be able to activate the new install.
You can try calling Microsoft and explain the situation. They might issue you a new product key.........IF you are lucky.
Otherwise, you are stuck with buying a new license.
That is as far as I know how to assist you.
Last edited:
Chuck Lynch
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Thanks for all your help.
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Jimbo22
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Andrea Borman
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According to this post I found on it says you can but you need to uninstall the product key from your old computer so that it will be valid on the new one. See How To Geek Website here-
http://www.howtogeek.com/124286/how-to-uninstall-your-windows-product-key-before-you-sell-your-pc
davidhk129
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A mission impossible considering the OP's computer has " completely died ".
Andrea Borman
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Oh yes I didn't read that bit. If his PC is dead then he cannot uninstall the product key to use on another computer.
