Windows 10 COA-

Question

Hello,

I own a small side business by selling used laptops and computers online. I usually purchase those laptops from different venders who they usually wipe the hard drive completely before selling it to me.

Those laptops and computers have either Windows 7 license Key sticker or Windows 8 or 10 embedded licenses.

I usually clean those laptops and sometime upgrade the HDD to SSD and resale them online. I also install Windows 10 OS.

My question is: is it legal to activate Windows 10 using Windows 7 product key that came with the laptop? if not, what about Windows 8 or Windows 10 embedded keys, can i activate the windows by using the embedded key?

I obviously want to do the right thing and do want to get in trouble.

Answer 1

Hi Computer_Reseller

Try the live chat support on this link:

https://partner.support.services.microsoft.com/...

Answer 2

How do i contact them? i have not been able to find a phone number to call and ask.

So the upgrade period has ended, but legally can i still use the OEM Windows activation code? or do i need to purchase new licenses?

Answer 3

Hi Computer_Reseller,

I am Dave, an Independent Advisor, I will help you with this.

This really is a grey area, we have asked Microsoft Support for a definitive answer on this and every time we het a different answer.

While the official upgrade time period to upgrade from Windows 7 or 8 ended 5 years ago, it is still possible to activate Windows 10 with a Windows 7 or 8 product key, and many people do that and have never had an issue later.

For some reason Microsoft have still left this loophole open, so the only reason is that they want everyone transferring over to Windows 10.

If you need further clarification, the best option would be to phone Microsoft Support in your local area and ask them, but you will not really get a straight answer.