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    Windows Vista 32-Bit Serial also valid for other versions?

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by rust1234, Mar 3, 2009.

  1. rust1234

    rust1234 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Hi,

    just bought a laptop which came with a German version of Windows Vista Home Premium 32-Bit. Since I am not German, first thing I want to do is to install the English version, I did this once with Windows XP, but is it possible with Vista? Has anyone tried it? I want to use my original Vista serial that came with the laptop of course.

    If it is possible I would also like to install the 64-Bit version of Vista. That might be harder I guess. Has anyone heard of a trade-in program or something similar?

    I could borrow the installation media from somewhere else, question is if my serial key would work?
     
    rust1234, Mar 3, 2009
    #1
  2. Big Mike

    Big Mike Notebook Deity

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    x86 and x64 versions of Vista use the same keys, however technically your machine was oem licensed for x86 only, you can try and get another disk from the manufacturer for x64, but otherwise you're "supposed" to buy a new copy. If you can get a copy of the same "version (home/business/ultimate/etc)" x86 or x64 it should install, but you're not really supposed to do that either.
     
    Big Mike, Mar 3, 2009
    #2
  3. nobscot6

    nobscot6 Wise One

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    for some reason i have it in the back of my mind that you can't use a german serial w/ the english install- but i've been wrong many times b4.

    You have 30 days to evaluate, so install and see if that key works. If not, ask the manufacturer as suggested.
     
    nobscot6, Mar 3, 2009
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