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Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 64-bit - System Builder (OEM)" to replace the OS that came on computer

Anonymous
2011-11-24T16:54:36+00:00

I created a set of back up disks for my Vaio Laptop when new but discovered they are corrupt when I need them. I have the original windows product key for the OEM install.

Can I purchase "Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 64-bit - System Builder (OEM)" to replace the OS that came on the computer?

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Licensing and activation

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  1. Anonymous
    2011-11-24T17:04:25+00:00

    If you need to reinstall Windows you should not have to buy another copy.

    Reinstall Windows Preinstalled On Computer

    OEM computer manufacturers are required to provide at least one way for you to reinstall Windows if you buy a computer with Windows preinstalled - your computer should have included either a restore partition on your hard drive, or Windows install/restore disks. Most computer manufacturers also have a feature to make your own install disks.

    If the restore partition is still there and was not removed, it will reinstall Windows. There is usually a prompt when you first start the computer telling you what key to press to start the restore - check your manual if you're not sure how to. Or if you have install disks - insert them, restart and boot from them to start the reinstall process.

    If you restore it to factory condition, it will be like it was when you first bought it - all preinstalled programs will be installed. Anything you installed after buying it must be reinstalled. This will remove any personal files on the computer, back them up first.

    If you don't have the restore partition or install disks:

    Contact the OEM computer manufacturer and ask them to send you an install disk for your computer - they may or may not do it. If they agree to send you one they may charge a small fee. Contact information for the manufacturer of your computer can be found here:

    http://support.microsoft.com/gp/oemphone/

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  2. Anonymous
    2011-11-25T04:23:24+00:00

    If you buy a new OEM copy of Windows it will install and activate, but technically OEM is for people who buy and sell computers, not consumers.

    For consumers, buying the retail version of Windows is recommended, you can buy it here:

    http://store.microsoft.com/microsoft/Windows-Windows-7/category/102

    Difference Between a Full/Upgrade/Retail License and an OEM/System Builder License.

    OEM licenses of Windows:

    1. Are bound to the first computer installed on and can't be moved to a different computer.
    2. Can not do an in place upgrade from older versions of Windows, only a clean/fresh install is possible.
    3. Offer no free support from Microsoft.

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  3. Anonymous
    2011-11-25T04:16:25+00:00

    Thanks

    There is a restore partition on the hard drive but during the restore process it was indicated that the restore mage could not be found. I also created a set of restore disks when the computer was new. Unfortunately they are corrupted (according to an error message during restore).

    .

    I should be able to get a set of restore media from Sony for a fee and will look into that. I have already downloaded all drivers, utilities and apps form the Sony support site and I have the product key for the OS that came on the computer.

    I am interested in having a windows OEM disk so I guess my question is if I purchase an OEM disk will it activate on my computer... will it be legal?

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