Upgrade Dell with XP via Windows 7 OEM?

[goombawaho]

Seems like something easy to answer, but I can't seem to find a definitive answer - only opinions on forums. Can you legally (per Microsoft EULA) buy and install Windows 7 OEM on an existing Dell in order to run Win 7? Seeing as you can't buy retail copies of Win 7 any more outside of Ebay.

Maybe that's my next question. Is it kosher to use a retail copy of Win 7 on a Dell if I can get one?

Of course this is all caused by customers splashing holy water on me when I ask them if they wouldn't rather have Windows 8. It burns.

"Living tomorrow is everyone's sorrow.
Modern man's daydreams have turned into nightmares.

 

[hairlessupportmonkey]

Technically I dont think its legal. You could buy some RAM and bundle it with an OEM copy to alleviate the "guilt"

ACSS - SME
General Geek

 

[AELLC]

I wouldn't worry about the somewhat questionable legality. There are far worse crimes, that cause far more grief.

I was very worried about being "forced" into Win8 when I needed a new computer, but was pleasantly surprised when I learned that my favorite computer "builder", a small outfit in CA, gave a choice between Win7 and Win8 OS on all their computers, and said they will continue some time into the future.

 

[strongm]

> Can you legally (per Microsoft EULA) buy and install Windows 7 OEM

No

>You could buy some RAM and bundle it with an OEM copy to alleviate the "guilt"

Appreciate you comment was accompanied by a smile, but no you can't. Microsoft removed that particular loophole years ago.

>Is it kosher to use a retail copy of Win 7 on a Dell if I can get one?

Yes

Question: did the Dell come with Windows 8.x Pro or better? If so you may be eligible for downgrade rights. In which case Microsoft provide links for legitimate download of the relevant ISOs

 

[goombawaho]

That's what I had guessed from what I read. The Dell came with Vista downgraded to XP (in 2009). So here I go to buy Win 7 retail from Ebay.

The thing is that nobody would know if you actually installed/activated the new OEM software on the old Dell. It wouldn't appear to Microsoft to be any kind of unusual activation that might pique their interest. Not that I'll do it.

"Living tomorrow is everyone's sorrow.
Modern man's daydreams have turned into nightmares.