📎 AI Summary:
The thread discusses the possibility of using a Windows 7 installed on a laptop's hard drive on a different desktop running XP. The second poster clarifies that OEM versions of Windows are not transferable, only retail copies are. The third contributor emphasizes that Windows licenses are rights to use the software, not ownership, and suggests purchasing a full version of Windows for full rights, noting that Windows 7 sales have been largely discontinued but legal copies are still available. Overall, the consensus is that transferring OEM Windows licenses is not permitted, and buying a retail copy is the best way to ensure legal and flexible use.
tom herron

tom herron

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May 1, 2014
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Thread Author #1
I'm running XP Home on my desktop and wanted to know if I can use the windows 7 that was on my laptop. The laptop got the screen cracked and I saved the hard-drive. I hooked up the hdd and it works, but will Microsoft validate and update it?
 

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whs

whs

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Sep 17, 2009
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#2
Not if is an OEM windows. You can only move retail copies.
 

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Pauli

Pauli

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Mar 1, 2012
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#3
Quite so. When you buy a car, you own it and you can move the engine to any other chassis of your choice. But when you buy a computer with a OS / program, you actually only pay for the right to use it = the program. You never own the program, period.

A phone call to Microsoft, or a such one / or visit to the retailer might clear the picture. Generally, the wisest move might be to buy a full version, thus having all rights to use it. Apparently Microsoft has withdrawn sales of Windows 7, but there are copies to buy - and I mean legal ones which retailers have in store. I doubt their sale can be forbidden, as it is a matter of free trade.

Anyway, you cannot have one Windows running on more than one computer, unless you have a license for more than one.

Hope I don't confuse you. :)
 

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