New Windows license needed if replacing PC with MacBook?

[IlliniDude]

I have a new MacBook Air. I need Windows installed in order to run a program for school.

I bought Parallels with the computer and will install it tonight.

Can I use my existing Windows license from my old PC (which I will be disposing of)? Or do I need to purchase a new one?

Thanks!

 

[miles01110]

You can use your existing license.

 

[maflynn]

You can use your existing license.

Unless its an OEM licensed version of windows. You cannot transfer OEM licenses to another computer

 

[balamw]

You cannot transfer OEM licenses to another computer

That is correct, with the OEM licenses that ship bundled with most PCs you explicitly do not get transfer rights granted by the EULA.

However, many have been physically able to move OEM licenses and get them fully activated by Microsoft. So just because you aren't granted the right doesn't mean it isn't possible.

Also, both Parallels and VMWare provide tools to convert a running PC to a VM. I have done this myself with my last Dell when I retired it and briefly went Mac only.

I would suggest you try using Parallels Transporter to create a VM clone of your existing PC and then really retire it. Erase or remove the HDD and remove the Windows license sticker from the case so there can be only one.

B

 

[IlliniDude]

That is correct, with the OEM licenses that ship bundled with most PCs you explicitly do not get transfer rights granted by the EULA.

However, many have been physically able to move OEM licenses and get them fully activated by Microsoft. So just because you aren't granted the right doesn't mean it isn't possible.

Also, both Parallels and VMWare provide tools to convert a running PC to a VM. I have done this myself with my last Dell when I retired it and briefly went Mac only.

I would suggest you try using Parallels Transporter to create a VM clone of your existing PC and then really retire it. Erase or remove the HDD and remove the Windows license sticker from the case so there can be only one.

B

Cool, thanks! I'll give that a shot. Is it relatively straightforward? I've not attempted anything like this before.

 

[balamw]

I haven't done it with Parallels and it looks like they charge for their version of the tool http://www.parallels.com/products/transporter/. Pretty straightforward for VMWare using VMWare Converter.

B

 

[maflynn]

I've used the vmware's converter tool and found that to be very straight forward. I haven't one it in a while but when I did, it was easy enough.