Using Reinstallation DVD on different computer

Question

Hello All, I have three Dell computers purchased within the last year.  Last month I put a solid-state hard drive in one of them to run the Windows 7 and several programs.  To do that I ran a clean install from a disk Dell graciously sent me.  Now I'm thinking of putting an SSD in one of the other computers (also an i5 chip) and wanted to know if I can use the same installation disk but the key code from the #2 computer.  As I understand it, the disk is keyed to Dell proprietary codes on the motherboard.  Both computers have Foxxconn B75 mobos but that's as far as I can take the comparison. Thanks for looking!  sh

theflash1932 · Accepted Answer

You can AS LONG AS the PC you use it on has a license for the exact same version of Windows as the disc.

luthierwnc · Answer

I should have thought of that.  This machine has home premium and the other is WinPro.  Looks like either a new disk or a migration.  Thanks, sh

theflash1932 · Answer

For Windows 7, you can request a replacement DVD from here (US only):

support.dell.com/.../backupcd_form

You can also download a "retail" ISO to install with, then activate using the Product Key on the system over the phone (with Microsoft, not Dell):

www.w7forums.com/official-windows-7-sp1-iso-image-downloads-t12325.html

Philip_Yip · Answer

You can also download a 'retail' ISO to install with, then activate using the Product Key on the system over the phone (with Microsoft, not Dell): www.w7forums.com/official-windows-7-sp1-iso-image-downloads-t12325.html You may also run the activation backup and recovery utility on your system to backup your Dell OEM System Locked Preinstallation Key and Activation. Once you Reinstall using the Digital River .iso you can restore this product activation. See Windows Reinstallation Guide/A Clean Install of Windows 7 (Step 1c and Step 11b) for more details here.

Windows General

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