activating vista?

[sabindrake]

I just bought the system builders OEM version of Vista Home premium 64 bit.

I have a MSDN version of Vista (all versions) downloaded already. Can I just use the key to activate that, when I get it or do I need to install from discs?

and is it normal procedure to have to call to activate? I was told the OEM key would not work with online activation.

 

[RebateMonger]

MSDN software is likely "Retail-like" and likely won't work nor activate with an OEM Key.

 

[sabindrake]

I was under the impression that the "software" was the same across the board and only the key mattered?

I'm getting different stories.. so I am unsure.

well worst case scenario is I just reinstall when the discs get here..

I need an OS for today. the disc will be in tomorrow.

 

[j0j081]

Originally posted by: sabindrake
I was under the impression that the "software" was the same across the board and only the key mattered?

I'm getting different stories.. so I am unsure.

well worst case scenario is I just reinstall when the discs get here..

I need an OS for today. the disc will be in tomorrow.

I think it should be fine. If not I bet you could activate it over the phone anyway if you explained to MS what you did.

 

[RebateMonger]

Here's what a Microsoft MVP says about it:


"No, you cannot use an OEM key to activate an MSDN version of Vista. The MSDN versions are the same as the full retail version.

You can use your MSDN subscription to obtain a product key. Be sure that you are following the MSDN licensing guidelines.

Ronnie Vernon
Microsoft MVP
Windows Desktop Experience"

 

[j0j081]

Originally posted by: RebateMonger
Here's what a Microsoft MVP says about it:


"No, you cannot use an OEM key to activate an MSDN version of Vista. The MSDN versions are the same as the full retail version.

You can use your MSDN subscription to obtain a product key. Be sure that you are following the MSDN licensing guidelines.

Ronnie Vernon
Microsoft MVP
Windows Desktop Experience"

well that is their official response but if the product is installed without a key is there any difference? I just received a system builder version of Vista HP today I am going to try installing it on a pc with the retail version installed with no key and will report back what happens.