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I don't need Windows and I am buying a new laptop. New laptop (Lenovo L530) includes OEM Windows 7 PRO license and there is nothing I can do to avoid buying the OS. Since, my family can use Windows on another computer, is it possible to transfer the license there? The difference between other usual OEM transfer cases is that I will never boot new laptop with the Windows OS (I will format it immediately).

My more specific questions: (1) will the new Windows 7 PRO OS be pre-activated when I will receive my new laptop? (2) Will the new OS be tied to the new laptop in the factory and not during activation / installation process and there is nothing I can do?

I tried researching this, but nothing helps. I only found that one can use manual activation method by phone to convince the operator you have broken your laptop and need an OS license transfer.

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marked as duplicate by Moab, Indrek, CharlieRB, BBlake, KronoS Nov 1 '12 at 17:56


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I know what Microsoft generally says in situations like these (see nerdwaller's answer), but I would still suggest you ask Lenovo about it since it's finally up to the manufacturer (Microsoft has already got its money). OEM versions are normally tied to the hardware they're installed on, so while a license transfer might not be possible, a refund might be (although going by reports it won't be easy). Still, no harm in asking them (ask Support to escalate it and don't be satisfied with some Level 1 guy saying No).

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I actually called Lenovo on this when I bought my laptop two months ago. I took it up three levels and tried multiple times to try the same thing. I was unlucky, I hope @Tautrimas has more luck than me! –  nerdwaller Nov 1 '12 at 16:02
As you can see from that Wikipedia article, it's difficult, requires a lot of persistence and probably will not succeed in all locations. –  Karan Nov 1 '12 at 16:03
No kidding, that's really funny (and worth not taking for all that). Thanks for sharing it. –  nerdwaller Nov 1 '12 at 16:07
@nerdwaller, thank you for inspiration. I am aware of the license refund and I will really try to do that in my country (Lithuania). –  Tautrimas Pajarskas Nov 1 '12 at 18:19
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Unfortunately Not.

From Microsoft's FAQ:

Microsoft Licensing FAQ

Q. Can my customers transfer or sell their OEM software licenses?

A. After an OEM software license has been installed on a PC, the license may not be installed on or transferred to another PC. However, the entire PC may be transferred to another end user along with the software license rights. When transferring the PC to the new end user, the software media, manuals (if applicable), and Certificate of Authenticity label must be included. It is also advisable to include the original purchase invoice or receipt. The original end user cannot keep any copies of the software.



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