Backing up operating system?

[SackamanjaroX]

So I plan on building a pc soon (I'm new at this) and I was wondering if I back up everything from my current computer onto an external harddrive, will I have to rebuy windows 7 to put the data on the new computer? Because I'd rather not shell out and extra $100 for something I already have. Thanks!

 

[BuzzStPoint]

If you have Windows 7 Installation and a valid key. You can transfer that to any computer you like. Chances are, once you build your PC and install the Win7 on the new pc, the activation will fail. This wont be an issue. Just call MS using the "Use automated Phone service to activate"

Just tell them you are transferring the OS and they'll ask you if you have it on only one computer. You tell them yes and they'll activate it for you.

 

[SackamanjaroX]

Hmm, I don't think i have the installation because I think it came with my laptop when I bought it and I can't remember if it was like preloaded with it or if I just lost the disc...

 

[BuzzStPoint]

Then you have 2 options from here.

Contact the computer manufacturer, and buy a set of disks.

Or look on the Genuine Windows sticker on the computer.
Find the OS version and download the OEM version of that.

During the install it will ask you for the product key. Enter your key in.
If the check fails. See post #2 pertaining to activation.

 

[disturbed13]

you can go through as many hard drive as you want
i.e. if your hard drive fails you can install a new one on the same mobo and it will still be legit
if you switch mobos it will no longer be valid if you use the same product key

now on a side note
once you get the new machine up and running
get another hard drive the same size as your primary
then dl and install this program
it will clone one hard drive to another
it just needs to be equal or larger in size

someone might be saying whats the point?
if your like me
and you are on a very tight budget
you will want to save that $400+ worth of software
includeing your Windows product key
if you make regular clones
like when you purchase and install software
if your hard drive fails
then you will still be able to boot into a working version of your PC
personalized, customized, and just the way you left it
just my $0.02