📎 AI Summary:
The thread discusses a user's concern about activating a second-hand Windows 8 Pro upgrade on a system with an existing OEM Windows 7 license that was upgraded to Windows 10. The user initially thought upgrading to Windows 8 would release the OEM license and allow for a clean Windows 10 upgrade, but later realized the Windows 8 license is retail and purchased without a Certificate of Authenticity, raising questions about activation and potential licensing conflicts. The responses clarify that while Windows 8 can upgrade a Windows 7 OEM license to a retail license, it does not extend the upgrade eligibility to Windows 10, and the user appears to have misunderstood the upgrade process. Overall, the discussion highlights concerns about licensing and activation when upgrading Windows versions with second-hand software.
Georgy

Georgy

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Thread Author #1
I just purchased a second hand copy of Windows 8 Pro (32/64bit Upgrade Discs) from a small IT dealer, and it comes with a Product Key.

I'm "waiting for the mailman" but I think it will provide a "Retail" version of Windows 8 when it gets used to upgrade my existing Windows 7 Home Prem' OEM "system builder" system.

However; My existing OEM Product Key is already legally "up-licenced" for Windows 10 (OEM) using the Windows 7 OEM Product Key / activation data....

So when I activate the Windows 8 Retail, will my Windows 7 OEM Product Key (and Win 10 OEM activation) be blacklisted ?

From:
"Ready to call Remond OEM user"!
Georgy.
 

Last edited:
Neemobeer

Neemobeer

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#2
If you already have Windows 10 why would you buy a Windows 8 disc? For one thing Windows 8 is EOL and you won't be able to upgrade the Windows 8 license to Windows 10 since the free upgrade period has been over for awhile.
 
Georgy

Georgy

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Thread Author #3
Ha, I thought that the upgrade would liberate my OEM licence. In fact, it seems I was wrong! Not only that but I've purchased a 2nd user windows 8 retail pack *without* any supplied COA. Doh !
 
Neemobeer

Neemobeer

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#4
It would upgrade the Windows 7 license to retail, but it wouldn't be eligible to upgrade to Windows 10.
 
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