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Can I use a 32bit OEM key to upgrade to Vista 64bit?

fatpat268

fatpat268

Diamond Member
Well, I know you can use a 32-bit retail key on the 64-bit vista, but I'm wondering if an OEM key will work with 64-bit as well.

Reason why I'm asking, is because my laptop currently has the 32-bit version preinstalled, and I'm wanting to upgrade to the 64-bit vista and I'd like to use the product key on the bottom of my laptop if at all possible.

Is it possible?
 
Ok, thanks, because the OEM keys can be picky with what they install (based on my experience from windows xp).
 
Vista is a lot more relaxed than XP in my opinion.
Cause I didn't like like the pre-installed windows on my laptop (32bit ultimate),I just did a fresh install of vista ultimate 64 and used the same key, one on the sticker.
When you try to activate it online it says its not a proper key but calling up and using the phone system works. As far as I'm concerned i'm using the right key with the mainboard it came.

 
My Vista Business key worked for both 32bit on my laptop and then when i wiped it off, i used the key to install 64 bit on my desktop.
 
Originally posted by: Dark Cupcake
Cause I didn't like like the pre-installed windows on my laptop (32bit ultimate),I just did a fresh install of vista ultimate 64 and used the same key, one on the sticker.
When you try to activate it online it says its not a proper key but calling up and using the phone system works. As far as I'm concerned i'm using the right key with the mainboard it came.
Click to expand...
Microsoft quit accepting the COA sticker Keys on the PC for ONLINE Activation of Windows about three years ago. Among other things, folks were going to BestBuy, reading the Keys on PCs on the shelves, and using those Keys to Activate XP. You have to do a phone Activation when trying to Activate with those Keys. (My statement applies to PCs from large suppliers like Dell, HP, etc.).
 
Originally posted by: RebateMonger
Originally posted by: Dark Cupcake
Cause I didn't like like the pre-installed windows on my laptop (32bit ultimate),I just did a fresh install of vista ultimate 64 and used the same key, one on the sticker.
When you try to activate it online it says its not a proper key but calling up and using the phone system works. As far as I'm concerned i'm using the right key with the mainboard it came.
Click to expand...
Microsoft quit accepting the COA sticker Keys on the PC for ONLINE Activation of Windows about three years ago. Among other things, folks were going to BestBuy, reading the Keys on PCs on the shelves, and using those Keys to Activate XP. You have to do a phone Activation when trying to Activate with those Keys. (My statement applies to PCs from large suppliers like Dell, HP, etc.).
Click to expand...

I've posted this guide here before. But for OEM computers (dunno about retail), one can backup and retore their activation state after reinstalling. nice to avoid having to wait on hold.

guide
 
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