Reinstalling Vista on my laptop. Legally, what am I allowed?

[nos217]

My laptop came with Home Basic already on, but I installed Linux on it. I now want Windows back so I can play TF2, but am I allowed 64 bit? I'm also buying 7 for christmas. Thanks.

[wuzzimu]

I thought your computer comes with a Windows Install CD, which was included in the cost. Technically, I think you're only allowed what's on that disk, until you buy another.

[nos217]

I can't find the disk :(.

[editline]04:16PM[/editline]

I thought it was the lisence you paiid for. In which case, I think that covers 64 bit. Not sure though.

[Robber]

Yes, you can use a 32bit key with the 64bit edition too. I'm not sure about OEM keys though.

[nos217]

Huzzah. Thanks.

[CombineGuru]

wont work its an OEM key :bang:

[JennyC6]

If windows accepts the key, you'll be fine.

[gRuKz]

You can contact microsoft to trade your OEM key for a retail key if it doesn't work.

[Second-gear-of-]

[QUOTE=gRuKz;18890018]You can contact microsoft to trade your OEM key for a retail key if it doesn't work.[/QUOTE]

I've tried that before, and they said I would have to pay $50 bucks.

[gRuKz]

[QUOTE=Second-gear-of-mgear;18895617]I've tried that before, and they said I would have to pay $50 bucks.[/QUOTE]

You can also edit your installation cd to make it accept OEM keys, but I doubt this is legal.

[Blarg190]

[QUOTE=gRuKz;18895880]You can also edit your installation cd to make it accept OEM keys, but I doubt this is legal.[/QUOTE]

Ha-ha-ha Legal.
If you do call them be sure to not tell them you installed Linux Bestbuy reformatted my Hdd just because it had Linux dual booted on it.

[Roast Beast]

Contact the laptop manufacturer for a 64-bit disc, regular Windows discs won't work with branded OEM keys.