Are license transferrable between computers I own?

Hey all,

I did a search on this and from what I gather, the authentication process done by Microsoft checks to see if its the same computer that you're reinstalling Windows on (should that need ever arises).

I currently own a Macbook and HP laptop. I ordered a copy of Win7 online and will be downloading it. My plan is to install it on the HP. If I decide to get rid of the HP, I'd want to move it over to the Macbook (I'm running the RTM version now).

My question is... I'm allowed to transfer the license between computers right?

Also, Since I ordered the 32-bit version and opted not to receive the back up disk, I'm getting I won't have the option of installing the 64-bit version?

Thanks!

 

It depends on if you ordered an OEM, upgrade, or retail version.

Retail allows you to transfer the license to another PC, provided you uninstall it from the initial one. I do not know the details of the activation scheme, but I suspect you won't have any problems so long as you don't try to install it too often or in too close of a timespan, and so long as you don't keep it installed on multiple machines and use Windows Update on multiple machines.

OEM allows you to install Windows on one computer, and is non-transferable. This is what you get on most new computers. The upside is that it is considerably cheaper than retail. You can re-install OEM on the same machine, and shouldn't have any problems so long as the hardware hasn't changed considerably (more of a concern with desktops than notebooks).

Upgrade allows you to upgrade XP or Vista to Windows 7, after which you must quit using the XP or Vista install you had (if you decide you don't like Windows 7 and roll back the upgrade, you can use XP/Vista again). I cannot find any solid information on whether an upgrade license is transferable. However, even if it is, you would have to already have XP or Vista installed on your MacBook to be able to use it there. It also is considerably cheaper than retail.

I do not know how Microsoft is handling 32/64 bits with online ordering.

 

I'm getting the retail version. I'm getting the $30 one that they are offering to students.

Thanks for the heads up!

 

The $30 dollar student deal is for Upgrade.
But Upgrades are usually called "Retail Upgrade" because it's identical to retail, except requires a previous OS.

 

Here's what I got from the website:

https://windows7.digitalriver.com/D...InformationPage&SiteID=mswpus&Locale=en_US#q4


Are these products Academic license(s)/version(s)?
No, these are retail versions, which provide all the benefits you would receive if you bought it at the store.

Still more questions? Back to Main Help Page


I guess it doesn't really matter since it seems that I can transfer the license..

Thanks!