Windows License

[gamerguy2]

I was told that if you buy a retail version of Windows, that you can legally install it on 3 pcs.

I use OEM Windows. But since I have 3 pcs running, I might want to upgrade one to Windows 7. If I pay full price for Windows 7 (not for an OEM copy) , Could I install it on all 3 pcs and run the 3 pcs at the same time using online games and services?



Thread moved from Software For Windows to Operating Systems.

AnandTech Moderator
mechBgon

 

[lxskllr]

No consumer version of Windows lets you install on more than 1 PC. 1 machine(physical or virtual)=1 license. You would need 3 licenses to upgrade all 3 machines. Maybe the family pack would be of use to you.

 

[RebateMonger]

Microsoft will be offering a three-PC "Family Pack" of Windows 7 Home Premium in October for $150 or so.

 

[gamerguy2]

So I have to stick to my oem versions.

"Family pack" of three for $150? Hmmm whats the catch?

 

[VirtualLarry]

Originally posted by: RebateMonger
Microsoft will be offering a three-PC "Family Pack" of Windows 7 Home Premium in October for $150 or so.

The Gotcha is, are those going to be retail licenses, or OEM licenses? And do you get three keys, or is it like Norton 3-user software, one key with three activations?

 

[BadRobot]

its illegal but you can install windows os on a number of computers with one key.

 

[RebateMonger]

Originally posted by: VirtualLarry
The Gotcha is, are those going to be retail licenses, or OEM licenses? And do you get three keys, or is it like Norton 3-user software, one key with three activations?

Like most every other detail of Microsoft's W7 upgrades, the details haven't been released yet. They'll be "upgrade" licenses, not "full" licenses, but you really can't expect more for $50 each. Worst case, they'll upgrade an OEM version to an OEM version and upgrade a Retail version to a Retail version. Best case, they'll upgrade an OEM version to a Retail version.