windows question

[Naku_vamp]

in short can i use a windows vista OEM code in a normal windows vista disk?

 

[Lorberry]

If I'm not mistaken, the codes are tied to the disks they are distributed with, you can't use one code on any other windows disk, let alone a different distribution of them.

 

[iPwntUrMum]

IIRC, you can do it. I believe you can even call Microsoft support for an extra OS install disk, if say your's has gone missing. You're paying for the key anyways. So yes, I think it will work.

 

[Monkey Brawler]

Its going to depend on the OS your trying to install. For instance, you cant use a windows vista Home disc with a windows Vista Ultimate Key. The key is NOT tied to the disc.

iPwntUrMum is correct, you are actually paying for that Key or License, the disc is nothing to them. I believe they will charge you a $25 fee or something like that however.

 

[Ric]

OEM keys unlock a restricted version of Windows. OEM keys will not work on retail versions of Windows 7/Vista. You may be able to authenticate yourself in the beginning at install, but once Microsoft's key server realizes you are using a restricted key, WAP/WAT will bug the poop out of you and may even lock you out of Windows. In extreme cases, Microsoft has been known to invalidate the whole key altogether, if caught using it on a retail version.

Since Windows Vista and including Windows 7, EULA of OEM license can only be installed on one computer, and is forever locked and bounded to the computer (motherboard) of which it’s installed. In Windows XP, OEM license can be installed on one computer at a time. OEM license is always the least expensive edition, but is available to OEMs only.

tl;dr
No, you can not, legally.