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    New hard drive, same Windows key

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by lucas755, Jan 7, 2012.

  1. lucas755

    lucas755 Notebook Geek

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    If I were to replace my hard drive, could I just install windows onto it using the same key as the old drive, or would it fail? Are there any special steps I need to take?
     
    lucas755, Jan 7, 2012
    #1
  2. Greg

    Greg Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    So long as it's the same system, you should be able to just clone the old hard drive onto the new one by using Acronis or Ghost or some other backup utility. Or if you do want to go through the reinstall and setup process activation shouldn't be an issue either.
     
    Greg, Jan 7, 2012
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  3. StormJumper

    StormJumper Notebook Virtuoso

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    No it should work only time would be when you activate the key online or on the phone if the key is blacklisted then it won't register. If your key is valid the registration should work.
     
    StormJumper, Jan 8, 2012
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  4. pusta

    pusta Notebook Consultant

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    I believe activation resets every 180 days on Microsoft's end. I also believe the Hard Drive is NOT one of the identifiers they use to generate the unique key, so you should be OK for a fresh install.
     
    pusta, Jan 8, 2012
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  5. StormJumper

    StormJumper Notebook Virtuoso

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    I highly doubt there is any truth to that...if the key is blacklisted your activation will tell them regardless that you have a blacklisted key. There is no reset from what I know blacklisted is blacklisted. If you bought the O/S legally you will have to send the package and invoices to M$ to get a valid replacement O/S that matches the O/S that you bought.
     
    StormJumper, Jan 9, 2012
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