PathogenX

I currently have win 7 RC ultimate
I am a little confused
here
whats the difference between the upgrade and the full?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16832116716
or
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...S2B-_-32116713


Just wondering before I make a mistake.

Yes I know these are not OEM but I plan on changing my MOBO later and dont want to rebuy it

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TwoCables

The Full version is designed for systems that have never ever had a genuine Windows Product Key activated on it. In other words, the Full version is for "virgin" systems.

The Upgrade version is for systems that have had a Product Key previous activated on it (at the very least, if choosing the format > clean install path). Otherwise, they are exactly the same in that they both have the same bits and bytes. The Upgrade isn't missing anything that the Full version has.

If you choose to do the format > clean install path, then you will eventually be asked for the previous version's Product Key to verify that it is indeed a legitimate upgrade (it will know if that Product Key has been activated on the same system you're trying to install Windows 7 on). After that, you'll be allowed to Activate and enjoy Windows 7.

If you choose the Upgrade path, then it will require that the previous version of Windows be present so that it can upgrade over it. However, according to Microsoft, this is only possible with Vista, so when upgrading from XP, the format > clean install path must be taken.

But again: other than that, the Upgrade and Full version are both the full version of Windows 7.

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PathogenX

I am currently running win 7 RC
so can I use that key?

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aksthem1

Actually that would be more suited for OEM.


You can't use the RC key for an RTM build if that's what you mean. You can upgrade to the RTM with the RC installed though.

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TwoCables

Unfortunately, the RC's Product Key isn't valid as a Previous Version's Product Key since it was free. Knowing Microsoft, they have put the lock-down on those 10 keys so that if anyone tries to use them to save money (by trying to use the lower-priced Upgrade disc to upgrade from the RC), they will be denied.

But if you have any Product Keys from XP or Vista that have been activated on this system in the past, then use those instead.

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PathogenX

I dont
so that means I have to drop the $200 on win 7 home premium
=/ agh
oh well I was really looking forward to that $120 price tag
unless i get the OEM which is $120

Can I use the product key that came with my laptop?

well thanks for the help + rep

__________________
PSN: X_Pathogen_X
Please tell me your from OCN when you add me

TwoCables

If you're installing Windows 7 on that laptop, then I don't see why not. I mean, if this is going to work the way I am understanding it to work, the only Product Keys that can be used when being asked for a Previous Version's Product Key is the Product Key that is currently activated on the system you're installing Windows 7 on.

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