How do I 'move' Vista to my new PC?

[GeneralOreo]

I have the full retail copy of Vista and I'm just building a new PC.

Do I just install it on the new PC? Isn't there some where I can 'deactivate' it on the old PC? As far as I know I can only install it on one PC.

Thanks for any help.

 

[Robor]

You are correct it can only be legally installed on 1 PC.

Since you've got a retail copy just install it on the new PC and if activation fails call MS and let them activate it for you. Worst case you'll have to talk to a rep and explain the situation. Probably < 10 minutes start to finish.

 

[Deinonych]

Robor is correct. Most likely, you won't have any problems with the activation since you have a retail copy.

 

[XZeroII]

Very carefully...

 

[GeneralOreo]

heh, thanks.

My new PC is almost done, just need to add a few parts and connect the cables.

 

[Griffinhart]

Originally posted by: Robor
You are correct it can only be legally installed on 1 PC.

Since you've got a retail copy just install it on the new PC and if activation fails call MS and let them activate it for you. Worst case you'll have to talk to a rep and explain the situation. Probably < 10 minutes start to finish.

Correct. I just did this a few days ago. The process involved:

-trying to activate, failing.
-using the provided phone number and reading out a number on the screen.
-answering a couple of questions. (Is it retail or OEM? is it installed on any other PC?)
-Typing in a long number they read to you.

Took me all of 5 minutes and everything is Activated.