To obtain a retail license for Windows 11, you can purchase it directly from the Microsoft Store or authorized retailers. Once you have the license, you can download the Windows 11 ISO installation file from the Microsoft website.
For creating a bootable ISO file for installation in a virtual machine like VirtualBox, follow these steps:
- Purchase a Retail License: Buy a Windows 11 retail license from the Microsoft Store or an authorized retailer.
- Download Windows 11 ISO: Go to the Download Windows 11 page and download the latest ISO file.
- Create a Bootable USB (Optional): If you want to create a bootable USB drive, you can use tools like Rufus or the Windows Media Creation Tool.
Regarding your concern about reinstalling Windows on the same VM or another real machine, as long as you deactivate the license key on the previous installation, you should be able to use it on a new installation without purchasing a new license.
References: