Re-installing Windows 7 (Same CD-Key)

Sorry for double post but was not able to edit my previous one.

Can someone sum all of this up for me?

Can I re-install Win7 with the same CD-key? and if so, can this be done with a flashed bios?

Thanks
 
You can reinstall with the same key.
You'll have to reactivate windows, most likely by phone as it's a reinstall. Just say you're reinstalling due to virusses...
 
Is your PC a brand name PC? ie, is it an Acer, Packard- Bell, Lenovo etc. or is it a custom build that has a non branded OEM version of Windows.

If its a branded PC, then use the bios from your PC Manufacturers website, not from the motherboard manufacturers website. This will ensure that the bios will have the correct SLIC 2.1 marker and ensure OEM pre-activation. This is important for activation if you use the included recovery media or if you made your own recovery media. You could also just install from the recovery partition.

If its a custom build, then flashing the bios with the latest version from the motherboard manufacturer's website will work perfectly fine.

If you have a brand name pc with no recovery media or recovery partition, then you can use a regular Windows 7 DVD and pre-activate it offline using the appropriate digital certificate and key. You will then just need the relevant drivers to get your pc to the same spec as when it was released by the OEM.
 
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I replaced a mobo in a Acer OEM. Windows Start Up repair couldn't fix anything so lapalo format/re-install. Used same key, No internet activation, only phone call to MS.. 100's! :D
 
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