Can I move an activated win7 to another computer

[Sandan]

I installed Win 7 32bit (Full not upgrade) on my primary system and activated it. Decided that I really wanted Win7 64bit on primary system so bought, installed and activated it. I want to put the Win 7 32bit on my laptop which now has Vista 32bit. Will it activate?

 

[corkyg]

It will have to be uninstalled from the main system, and then you may need to make a phone call to Microsoft. They will fix that for you.

 

[Sandan]

Thanks. I did uninstall it. Hopefully If I have to make a call there will be no problem..

 

[TJones2]

Does the same apply if its Home Premium Upgrade? I put it on my netbook and well, its pretty awful on this slow a machine. I want to move it to a desktop system.

 

[SimMike2]

I think the only versions of Windows which are tied to specific machines are OEM and manufacturer specific installs, like HP or Dell. The rest, full or upgrade, can be installed multiple times on different computers, but it is only supposed to be activated and used on one computer. I just moved my Vista full business version to another computer. I could not activate online. I tried calling up and entering all the numbers on the screen and it worked. So you might not have to talk with someone. I've heard it is not too bad getting it activated when you call MS. Just explain your situation, or have your scenario ready. The main thing they don't want is multiple computers running the same copy of Windows. This will probably even work with OEM versions where something like your mainboard blew up. Or just tell them it wouldn't work when you installed a new network and video card.

 

[Gooberlx2]

So you had win7-32, wanted 64, bought a new license and installed it....so you have an extra win7 license laying around?

Regardless if it's 32-bit or 64-bit, two computers = two licenses. If the first license was OEM that you purchased from somewhere like newegg, you'll probably have to call it in. If it's OEM from Dell/HP, you'll be SOL. If the licenses are retail, you shouldn't get any shit...though you might have to call it in anyway if you activated the old license recently.

 

[Bacstar]

Just a comment when using the Phone Activation method: After entering all the numbers, the automated system will ask how many systems this copy of windows is installed on. Depending on the license you have, make sure you answer correctly. Otherwise, it will boot you out and you'll have to start over.

 

[Sandan]

I should mention that the 32 bit full version was obtained through my College free..I am an IT student. The second version 64bit I bought for 29.99 with my student email ID.