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Windows 7 upgrade Help

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bdubs
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09 Dec 2009, 10:24 am

I built a new computer. However I bought windows 7 upgrade at a student discount online. It wont let me activate the key code bc I don't have a previous version of windows on my computer. I lost my original xp cd and key. A friend said I could borrow his vista cd and key. Could I use this, I don't want to screw him out of his windows software? I was planning on installing his version. Then immediately installing windows 7 upgrade that I purchased. Also, when should I install the drivers after vista install or after windows 7 install? ALso, window7 never completely installed, will it overwrite when I install again?



Keith
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09 Dec 2009, 10:59 am

Personally, I avoid upgrade versions. I would install XP on the computer first, then install the upgrade.



zer0netgain
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09 Dec 2009, 11:03 am

Reasons like this is why I chose to just buy a fresh install rather than upgrade. :? 8O

Do you have the XP label that often gets stuck to the PC case when they install the OS? That has the CD key number on it as well?

The problem with borrowing your friend's key is if the install will match it to the key logged in your OS's registry. If they don't match, it probably won't work, but I'm guessing here.

If you are upgrading, odds are most everything will "migrate" over to the new OS. You back up files as a precaution.



bdubs
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09 Dec 2009, 11:19 am

zer0netgain wrote:
Reasons like this is why I chose to just buy a fresh install rather than upgrade. :? 8O

Do you have the XP label that often gets stuck to the PC case when they install the OS? That has the CD key number on it as well?

The problem with borrowing your friend's key is if the install will match it to the key logged in your OS's registry. If they don't match, it probably won't work, but I'm guessing here.

If you are upgrading, odds are most everything will "migrate" over to the new OS. You back up files as a precaution.


The reason why I bought the upgrade is because I thought I was getting a deal 40 dollars. I lost my copy of xp so I would have to borrow my friends vista. You might be right about the key logged in my OS registry. I might have to learn linux if this doesnt work hahah.



CloudWalker
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09 Dec 2009, 4:49 pm

You can try this: When you install Windows 7, don't enter your key. This should install it in trial mode. After install and reboot, it'll ask you to activate, enter your key now.