Upgrade rules with Windows 7 activation??

Vlad Drac

Vlad Drac

Vlad Drac

Associate
Joined
12 Mar 2004
Posts
730
Location
Scotland
Hi All

What are the rules with Windows 7 activation??
After activating a OEM copy Windows 7 what are the type of components that can be changed / upgraded without effecting the License?
Parts like the Motherboard, CPU, PSU, DVD drive, HSF, Case fans, or even the Case itself. Also how many major components can I replaced with out Microsoft blocking further Activations of the same OEM copy of Windows 7 at a future date?
Also, I did hear or read somewhere ( I cant remember where ) that even updating the motherboards BIOS can effect the Windows License. Anybody know if this is true?
 
It's the same as other Windows versions. Oem technically can only be installed on 1 mb. However they normally let u activate when u call, but they shouldn't as it breaks the eua. Retail versions can be installed in as many as u like (1 pc at a time)
 
Every component except the motherboard can be upgraded, and the motherboard itself can be replaced if it is defective.

In the cases where you've read updating the motherboard software affects the licensing, it's more than likely that whatever they've done has made Windows think the motheboard has been replaced.
 
With OEM you can change almost everything except the motherboard. Though sometimes other components might cause you to need activation. Rare though.

If you do a massive upgrade [i.e. - everything but the mobo] that could also trigger activation.

Changing the mobo is technically not allowed with OEM unless it needs to be replaced due to a fault.
 
When ever I've clean reinstalled XP or Vista on the same PC in the past it always asks for activation before 30 days. Which I do online. Am I doing something wrong?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom