Windows 7 Ultimate. Registration and re-installing on same computer.

[Admetos]

I'm thinking of buying Windows 7 Ultimate OEM.

What happens if you have to re-install windows for any reason on the same machine (same motherboard & CPU), is there a registration limit?

Also what would happen if you upgraded the machine with new motherboard and or CPU, would you require a new registration of windows, and would the registration fail requiring you to purchase windows again?

Please note I'm not trying to get around installing the same license on multiple machines, however would not like to have to re-purchase windows every time I upgraded my PC.

Finally I have read there is a difference between how many times the OEM and retail versions can be registered, or is this just internet myth?

Cheers
Jason

 

[SiriusB]

I'm thinking of buying Windows 7 Ultimate OEM.

Unless you need Domain join ability, bitlocker and multiple language support - don't bother. Get Home Premium Retail.

What happens if you have to re-install windows for any reason on the same machine (same motherboard & CPU), is there a registration limit?

There is no limit, though after a certain number of times you may need to activate over the phone. It takes only a few minutes of keying in loooong number strings.

Also what would happen if you upgraded the machine with new motherboard and or CPU, would you require a new registration of windows, and would the registration fail requiring you to purchase windows again?

With OEM the license is tied to the motherboard. If the motherboard fails you should try to get the same model. Or the closest match if the original model is no longer available. Upgrades are not permitted and you will have to buy a new Windows license to remain legal.

Please note I'm not trying to get around installing the same license on multiple machines, however would not like to have to re-purchase windows every time I upgraded my PC.

Then buy Retail. OEM is only intended for System Builders and you are only a System Builder if you sell the PC to someone with the OEM Windows.

Finally I have read there is a difference between how many times the OEM and retail versions can be registered, or is this just internet myth?

You should be able to activate both any number of times, though as said above, after a certain number of activations you may need to start doing it over the phone.

In short, just buy Retail. Yes it is more expensive, but much less aggro involved when you want to change hardware etc.

 

[Admetos]

Ok cheers for the info!