A quick question about Windows 7...

[Oberbefehlshaber]

So im running XP now and am about to go out and buy windows 7. The thing is, I will be building a new PC in about a year, so can I install the same windows 7 that I bought? even though its been installed on another computer before? Whats to stop me from installing the same copy on every PC in my house?

[Bolkonsky]

Activation limits. You'll have to call Microsoft and tell them you bought a new computer and want to put Windows 7 on that, and most of the time they'll let you, if you take it off your old one.

[Oberbefehlshaber]

most of the time they'll let you.

Most of the time? Im deffinetly not going to buy windows 7 again, so should I just wait till I build a new PC?

[Bolkonsky]

If you don't need Windows 7, I'd wait. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but Microsoft doesn't always allow you to switch it over. Especially if you buy it OEM.

Or if you live in the US, you can always get this:

http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Wind...9267208&sr=8-1

[Oberbefehlshaber]

If you don't need Windows 7, I'd wait. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but Microsoft doesn't always allow you to switch it over. Especially if you buy it OEM.

Or if you live in the US, you can always get this:

http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Wind...9267208&sr=8-1

I see, I do live in the US. Well that would solve the problem. I noticed that it says "upgrade" in the family pack. Does that mean I would need to have vista for that to work? (Edit: I believe it does say "requires vista" in the top left corner of the "family" package) And is that why it is cheaper than this? Sorry it doesent say, thanks for your help.

http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Wind...ref=pd_cp_sw_3

Ah, it seems this answers my question. So if i bought that "family pack" i would not be able to do a clean instal on my new PC when i get it.

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/w...4-c613fa102310

[Bolkonsky]

It says "Designed for Windows Vista" but I've done it with XP. It even comes with this piece of paper:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

You may need to install Windows XP first before upgrading, or it's possible they stuck to the traditional method, when you only need to insert your XP disc for a few moments, I don't know.