[techmaster85]

I have a windows 7 upgrade license which I got thru the Ultimate Steal Deal from MS and put that on a computer which had a mobo failure. I will be replacing the mobo and ram, and was wondering if I can use the current image of my computer *macrium reflect image* to intall that onto the new mobo PC and use the same license, just have to reactivate? I know that manes I could never go back to a computer that had that license on it before, but since it is dead, no worries right?

Confirmation of this is appreciated

[TerryNet]

First, since you are not replacing the hard drive I don't understand the use of the backup image?

If you are replacing with the exact same model motherboard it may work. Otherwise, you will need to install Windows ('cause the chipset drivers will be different) and Microsoft considers a changed motherboard to be a different computer.

[techmaster85]

Ok, what about if I wipe the HDD, and then install my upgrade copy on top of that? Will I need another key or will I just need to call MS? Since its a retail upgrade I assume that would work, its like any retail version of windows...

[TerryNet]

If it was used to upgrade a retail XP or Vista then it is retail, and a call to Microsoft will get it transferred to and activated on the new machine.

If is was used to upgrade an OEM XP or Vista then it is OEM, and you will need a new Product Key. Doesn't seem quite fair to me if you are replacing (not upgrading) a failed motherboard, and if you plead your case with Microsoft they may let you win.

[techmaster85]

Ya, that is what I was afraid of. Will the call to MS for the retail upgrade require talking to a person, or will that be all automated?

[TerryNet]

Don't know.

[crazyfox75]

Originally Posted by TerryNet

Don't know.

Depends on the type of license you have

I recently replaced my machine and re-installed my retail copy of Win7-64, and had to press 1 to confirm that I had removed the software off the old PC. All automated, no humans involved.

If it's an OEM version and you can convince them that you had to replace the mobo because of a failure, you *may* get them to allow it. Generally, in my experience, they'll normally give you the benefit of the doubt.

Good luck !

[techmaster85]

By type of liscense on an upgrade though....is there any other kind of upgrade besides retail?

[TerryNet]

By type of liscense on an upgrade though....is there any other kind of upgrade besides retail?

If by "upgrade" you mean a discounted price based on having a qualifying XP or Vista then yes; see post # 4.

[techmaster85]

Well, I bought the upgrade thru the Ultimate Steal Deal for students, and I assume that was a retail buy...which I think means its transferable?

[TerryNet]

When I look for information on that deal I find the term "retail upgrade license" (emphasis mine). And from these descriptions note the sentence

Upgrade retail license can only be installed on a system that already has an OEM or full license.

You got two discounts on that purchase--an "upgrade" discount and then a student discount on top of that.