I have a previous version of Windows on my current PC (that died) but lost my XP CD. Can I use my code from my XP CD to upgrade to Vista and just buy the Home Premium Upgrade box to use my MacBook?
Got a tip for us?
Let us know
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
Can I use the Upgrade version?
- Thread starter Affe
- Start date
- Sort by reaction score
Not sure... I do know some programs that come in both upgrade and full versions require that you actually insert the CD of a previous version of the software to prove that you actually own it (as opposed to just giving it a serial key). I don't know if that's the method Windows uses, though.
iBookG4user
macrumors 604
I believe that windows upgrade editions require you to put in the CD so it can verify that it is a windows CD. (Although I haven't installed windows in a long time.)
balamw
Moderator emeritus
Vista upgrade wants you to install from a running XP.
Google "clean install" vista upgrade for a method that doesn't require XP.
OK here's a link: http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/31/clean-install-workaround-for-vista-upgrade-discovered/
B
Google "clean install" vista upgrade for a method that doesn't require XP.
OK here's a link: http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/31/clean-install-workaround-for-vista-upgrade-discovered/
B
balamw
Moderator emeritus
The OP did say the PC died, though that doesn't mean it's 100% in line with the EULA since it was probably an OEM license and thus not did not come with transfer rights.
B
I purchased a full version of XP when I built my own PC which has since died.
So would it be physically possible for me to install Vista with the upgrade disc? I can always get a product key from school at a discount if it doesn't work.
balamw
Moderator emeritus
I provided the link on how to do this above, but the short synopsis is yes.
Install a trial copy of Vista using any Vista install media, and then "upgrade" to your activated version from that.
B