Steal genuine Windows 7 Pro license from a dead Sony VAIO machine.
Steal genuine Windows 7 Pro license from a dead Sony VAIO machine.
No, I did not perform any commands related to uninstalling a product key.
Call MS support right away and request assistance. They can clarify whether your OEM keys are linked to a specific model or if you can apply an older key to a new device. Activation must be handled through MS support before installation—don’t wait until after setup.
In theory it's quite straightforward. Put the operating system on the new device using the key from the laptop, let it attempt (and fail) to start, dial the activation number, and follow the prompts. But this approach violates the EULA, which classifies it as piracy and breaches the CoC here as well. Therefore, I must express my disapproval and advise against it. Don't proceed.
Reusing OEM keys raises serious concerns. Who actually believes it’s piracy? The question is who would say that? And why does someone think a simple phone activation equals breaking the law? Let me be clear: I’ve already transferred an OEM key three times without any issues. When I reached out to MS support, they handled it smoothly—my device activated on a new machine and later upgraded to Windows 10 without trouble. Even after switching back to Windows 7, everything worked fine. I’m not saying it’s perfect for every key, but in some cases it does. Just contact Microsoft support before installing, and they’ll be more understanding than you think.
Microsoft confirms. The End User License Agreement for OEM Windows versions clearly limits the license to that particular hardware. Using it elsewhere breaches the agreement, making your installation legally a violation. Changing a motherboard is acceptable, but moving a laptop key to a desktop? That’s treating it as a motherboard swap because of a defective device.