If you want to use your Windows activation key on more than one computer then follow this article. Although there are some technical exceptions (which we will explain below), we must specify that Windows can only be installed on a single device.
How To Install Windows On Multiple Computers
The license agreement issued by Microsoft is very clear on this. In addition, when you enter the product key during the installation process, Windows locks this copy of the software on the PC in question.
It’s only natural to think that a product you buy can be used as you see fit, but Microsoft does not necessarily see it that way.
However, there are alternatives for those who want to enjoy Windows 10, or even Windows 7, on more than one PC.
Microsoft’s policy may seem a bit harsh, but a Premium product like Windows requires a lot of work and requires a huge financial investment. Some might point to Apple, which for several years, offers free OS X operating system, but this comparison would not be fair.
Apple is primarily a computer device company that uses its own software and whose revenues are derived from their sale, while Microsoft (for the most part) is a software and services company.
Also, this argument is less relevant since Microsoft has made Windows 10 available for free during its first year of release.
Install Windows on another PC with your installation CD or DVD
If you have purchased the boxed in-store Windows package (containing installation CD and DVD), as opposed to the OEM copy that is preinstalled on the new PCs, then here are your different options.
Be aware that Microsoft allows you to transfer its software from one machine to another, note that we said transfer rather than share since the operating system only remains active on one computer at a time.
The only exception to this rule is Windows 7 Home Edition, with which you can simultaneously enjoy Windows on three different computers.
To transfer Windows from one PC to another, you must first uninstall it from the first computer and then install it on the second computer.
Before you can activate it, you will also need to contact Microsoft and explain what you intend to do. It’s a simple process and you’ll be up and running in no time.
Here’s how to transfer Windows 7 to another new computer:
- On the Start menu, right-click Computer.
- Select Properties. Go to the bottom of the window and click on Activate Windows Now.
- In the menu that opens, you are asked to activate Windows by phone.
- Select this option and choose your country from the drop-down list.
Click Next. - You will receive a phone number that you can call to confirm your details with Microsoft and activate Windows 7 on the new PC.
- Transfer Windows 10 to a new PC
- With Windows 10, things are different since it does not have a product key, but a digital license. However, you can still transfer Windows 10 to a new computer as long as you have purchased a retail copy or an upgrade of Windows 7 or 8.
Indeed, you are not allowed to transfer Windows 10 if it is preinstalled on a fixed or portable computer purchased.
Also, new copies of Windows are expensive if you buy them directly from Microsoft.
One of the best ways to enjoy Windows without buying a license is to simply install it and not activate it. During installation, you can skip the step that requires the product key.
And, although Windows 10 will harass you and impose some minor restrictions such as the inability to change wallpaper, you will basically have an operating system.
Alternatives to Windows
If you have an old PC, but you do not have a copy of Windows and do not want to pay one know that there are alternatives.
Linux
Linux has a wide range of impressive distributions that resemble high-end software.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu is the most important and probably the best for new users. Nevertheless, many have a weakness for Linux Mint, whose layout should be familiar to regular Windows.
If you want to revive an old PC, and you plan to use it mainly to surf the web, watch videos, for office tasks, then Linux is a completely free option that deserves a visit.
ChromeOS
In the same way as Linux, Google’s ChromeOS is another great choice for those with simple needs. Plus, converting an old PC to a Chromebook is simple and free.
