64 bit - Is my Windows 7 x86 license key valid for a x64 installation of Windows?

03
2014-05
  • Justin

    Possible Duplicate:
    When reinstalling Windows 7, does the language, version, architecture (64-bit or 32-bit) or source (OEM, retail, or MSDN) matter?

    I've just got a new laptop with Windows 7 x86 Home Premium installed, however I ideally I'd like to be running a 64-bit operating system:

    • Is my Windows license key "generic" (in that it entitles me to install either a x86 or x64 edition of Windows), or does this licence key specific to the x86 version of Windows?

    • Is there any way of me installing and running Windows 7 Home Premium x64 using my x86 license key?

    • Answers
  • James Watt

    Yes your Windows 7 key works for both x32 and x64 versions of Home Premium.

    Source: Microsoft eOpen only provides 1 key per purchase, regardless of how many computers you have or which architecture (x32/x64) you are using. Furthermore, Microsoft TechNet subscribers get 10 keys for each flavor of Windows 7 (Home Premium, Professional, Ultimate, etc.) These keys can be used to install on either architecture.


    • Related Question

    Windows 7 retail license transfer?
  • Thamood

    Possible Duplicate:
    When reinstalling Windows 7, does the language, version, architecture (64-bit or 32-bit) or source (OEM, retail, or MSDN) matter?

    I bought a new Windows 7 Professional retail copy, but I'm thinking of upgrading my hardware so I think I'll need to reinstall the whole OS again, so my question is "how can I transfer the license?"

    I read that I only need to format the old copy and install the new OS and it will be activated with no problems, it that correct?


    • Related Answers
  • William Hilsum

    If you are just changing a few bits of hardware, it shouldn't require re activation.

    If you install over your current installation, you may require reactivation.

    If you do a fresh installation, you will need to reactivate.

    On top of this, if it is only a few times in a long period of time, it is unlikely you will have problems. If however it fails to activate, simply ring the toll free number it gives you as an option and explain the situation to the operator. They will waive you through and either give you a new serial key or just let it through this once and reset your acitvation counter.

    The fact is, activation is horrible but Microsoft do not do it to catch out legitimate users who need to reinstall - they do it for the people who leak a serial key and thousands of people use it. As long as you have a valid licence key and explain, they will let you have as many installations as you need* - no problem.

    *as long as you abide to the EULA and not more than one at any one time!

  • ChrisF

    You are allowed a certain number of reinstallations (or reactivations) of Windows. Unfortunately I can't find the information right now, but the number 5 comes to mind.

    Certain hardware upgrades are allowed (such as changing graphics card*) "free of charge" as it were, but others (such as changing hard drive - but then that is a reinstallation) require reactivation.

    * I've never had to reactivate Windows after changing graphics cards but I've always used the Professional versions so the rules might be different for the retail version.