Buying a Used computer with Windows 7 installed. Do I "own" the license?

[Petros_k]

Some sellers on Ebay will sell a used computer with an operating system already installed. Most don't include a reinstallation disc. Still, if the OS is ultimately tied to the motherboard's serial number, does the buyer of the computer now "own" the license for the use of the OS? I ask because I'm wondering if it's possible for someone who buys a used system like this to call the vendor (like HP or Dell) and request the reinstallation disc be sent to you.

 

[pmv]

In theory I vaguely think I read somewhere its technically only allowed if you have both the COA and the original media. In practice though I think you only need the COA. So if the PC has the COA sticker on the case (with the crucial serial number) then it should be OK and you can probably get the media itself from somewhere else.

If there's no COA then I don't think any installation on there is really legal and you won't be able to update it or reinstall it.
That's my understanding anyway.

 

[Petros_k]

The system's being resold by a "Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher," whatever that means. He must have a COA for the computer in order in install Windows 7 on the system, right?

 

[JackMDS]

The system's being resold by a "Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher," whatever that means. He must have a COA for the computer in order in install Windows 7 on the system, right?

We can Not provide you the answer.

Ask the seller and indicated that if it Not working as it should you are going to return it.

As for "Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher," - http://www.microsoft.com/refurbishedpcs/mar.aspx

 

[Petros_k]

We can Not provide you the answer.

Ask the seller and indicated that if it Not working as it should you are going to return it.

As for "Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher," - http://www.microsoft.com/refurbishedpcs/mar.aspx

I already found that link and it explains well enough. The seller is authorized to put a new code (a sticker) on the used system for resale that gives the new owner the same license arrangement as if buying the OS from an OEM vendor (meaning the OS is bound to the same computer and can't be transferred like a retail version can be).