Windows installation question

[blue-eye-boy]

Hey all just a quick question. I have many times before installed Windows 7, but every time I used the installation disk, and serial number with it.

Now I need to format one of the work pc's, and reinstall windows 7. But when we bought it, it never had the windows installation disk with, just the serial number of windows on the tower case.

Can I install windows with any disk, and then just use that serial?

Sorry for this stupid question, but I never did it this way before.

Thanks

 

[ITCynic]

Download a OS keyfinder before you reinstall to confirm the OS Serial Key and save it to a save place.

 

[NeonNinja]

Yes, make sure it's the same version though.

Home basic >> Home Basic
Home Premium >> Home Premium
Professional >> Professional
Ultimate >> Ultimate
Enterprise >> Enterprise

Oh, and bit version obviously.

 

[McGuywer]

Yes, make sure the versions are the same.

You can use ProduKey from the excellent Nirsoft to find the current key. Remember to check for other programs as well (Office, Adobe, CAD etc)...

 

[PsyWulf]

The most correct answer is: maybe
It depends if the disk you use is an OEM/Volume/Retail disk compared to the disk that was used previously to load the machine

Now if it DOESNT work,don't lose hope,try using a key from another machine or the key that came with the disk,then activate telephonically and give them the key from the certificate to prove ownership
Or use an activation tool ( KMSpico etc ). As long as there is a valid COE on the box it doesn't particularly matter what key is used on it as long as it is the same edition

 

[blue-eye-boy]

Thanks guys, will check tomorrow.

 

[RyanPCMR]

If it's a corporate license then you should be able to re-install with any windows 7 dvd. Speak to your IT department also because they might have the installation disk.