I have an older Dell E521 on which I would like to install Windows 7 Pro. It's an upgrade version to be used over Windows Vista, but done with a clean install.
Here's the possible problem. The product key of the W7 Pro in question was originally installed on the desktop I am on now, originally installed over Windows Vista, which I borrowed from the Dell so I could have something to use for the upgrade to W7 Pro. I never activated the Vista on my present computer and it was only on here for about fifteen minutes.
I then upgraded to W8 Pro, from a disk, and again a clean install, then to W8.1 Pro, using the online method, and then to the W10 Pro I am presently using, again doing it online.
I would like to use the Windows 7 Pro disk and product key to upgrade the Windows Vista on the Dell so I can donate it. What I'm wondering is if it will work, due to the Windows 7 Pro product key technically being connected to the computer I'm on now. I hope this makes sense.
Any ideas? Do you think it will work? I just don't want to donate something that is practically worthless because of a VERY outdated OS. In the end, if it won't work, I'll put LinuxMint on it, but the Windows 7 would be so much better. I want to find a way to make something work as I don't want to just toss it in the junk pile when so many families around here can't afford a computer for their kids.
Thanks for the help.
Yes, the product key was used for the installation on this computer, which is what I was worried about.
Everything to the present W10 Pro was an upgrade over that, no full versions.I should have made it clearer that the 7 was on here for a couple of years, then to the 8, then a while later to the 8.1, then a while later to the 10. I've replaced practically all parts in this computer, piece by piece, so it's really only the same computer in spirit, not entirely the same as when I first put 7 on it.
It looks like LinuxMint it is. Thanks for the help.
What type of product key ?
OEM or retail ?
OEM is tied to the original machine.
Retail can be reused .... one machine at a time.
Look online (I'd skip ebay) and see if you can find a good price on a retail key and disc.
GabeU,
You may also wish to join DSLR and post that question in the Microsoft sub-forum:
https://www.dslreports.com/forum/Microsoft