Dead Men Walking

dMw Chit Chat => The Beer Bar => Technology Section => Topic started by: DarkAngel on June 19, 2009, 05:55:54 PM

Title: Windows Vista 32bit
Post by: DarkAngel on June 19, 2009, 05:55:54 PM
Prior to getting my new rig i require a copy of Windows vista 32bit to install on my laptop as i have lost my cd :sideways:. I have the full license key on the bottom of the laptop.

Does any1 have a spare copy i could borrow to get it restore prior to selling>?

Many Thanks Dom
Title: Windows Vista 32bit
Post by: Carr0t on June 19, 2009, 07:10:39 PM
I don't have a copy but:

Which version of Vista? Home Basic, Home Premium, Business, Enterprise, Ultimate? They keys for one won't work with another, so it's important to know.

Also, the Windows discs have no copy protection on them, as the important thing from their point of view is the key not the software, so there's nothing illegal about you burning a copy of the disc if you find someone who has it.
Title: Windows Vista 32bit
Post by: T-Bag on June 19, 2009, 07:25:40 PM
all the disks are the same, when you put the key in it installs the right version. There are versions online with service packs streamlined if you have a legal key this is fine.
Title: Windows Vista 32bit
Post by: DarkAngel on June 19, 2009, 08:09:58 PM
Its Home Premium OEM :) 100% legal
Title: Windows Vista 32bit
Post by: Liberator on June 19, 2009, 08:28:12 PM
BUT!

The sticker on the bottom of your laptop will be an OEM key.

That means you'll need the manufacturers recovery/installation disk, OEM keys will not work on retail disks.
Title: Windows Vista 32bit
Post by: Penfold on June 19, 2009, 11:48:00 PM
That's not particularly a problem.
 
I've used a generic disk with a dodgy key (just to get it installed) then phoned Microsoft with the OEM key on the bottom of the PC. They then check that key is legit and will issue you with another real key and give you instructions how to swap the registered key over. It sounds more complicated than it is.

Have to say I've phoned them several times over the last few years and they've been nothing but very helpful.

0870 60 10 100
Title: Windows Vista 32bit
Post by: DarkAngel on June 20, 2009, 01:57:37 AM
Its a Generic License key so any Generic OEM disc will work on it.