Windows for new rig

[Gr3yham3]

Hi all, finally building a new rig after 6 years. Given that my current Windows will continue to be used since my current rig will be passed to my kids to use, what is the procedure now to get Windows installed on a brand new self-built rig?

Haven't done this for a long time since this current Windows license has been with me since 2005 and it has been a long time since I had to get a new Windows license for a brand new rig

 

[Gr3yham3]

You said current windows license from 2005??? Is that XP???

Likely won't work with Windows 10/11. I don't advise on using grey market keys lol so i leave to the other members. If get grey market keys I'd rather still have my free option (though this method isn't publicly disclosed for fear of the route being patched).

Anyway, if you have a Windows 7 license around it is entirely possible to still bring it up to Windows 10, associate it with an MS account and port that license over to the new computer. There is a 72 hour waiting window however.

Can't remember but it could be that I upgraded from Windows 7 to Windows 10 later..

I can't port the license since it will continue to be used in the current rig that my kids will "inherit"

 

[NightRaven49]

what is the procedure now to get Windows installed on a brand new self-built rig?

most straightforward is to download the media installation tool from windows website, then find a thumbdrive (>8gb) which is empty/u don't mind formatting. with the tool, install the windows installer in the thumbdrive. then plug it into the pc u want to install it to and follow the on screen instructions.

 

[Gr3yham3]

most straightforward is to download the media installation tool from windows website, then find a thumbdrive (>8gb) which is empty/u don't mind formatting. with the tool, install the windows installer in the thumbdrive. then plug it into the pc u want to install it to and follow the on screen instructions.

I see. So that will be the unactivated windows right? Also, I will need to boot from USB?

 

[NightRaven49]

I see. So that will be the unactivated windows right? Also, I will need to boot from USB?

yes to both. during the install it may prompt u to enter activation keys, so u can input if u want or skip otherwise. u can always activate later in settings also. booting from usb should be automatic if mobo does not detect other os in the system.

 

[Gr3yham3]

yes to both. during the install it may prompt u to enter activation keys, so u can input if u want or skip otherwise. u can always activate later in settings also. booting from usb should be automatic if mobo does not detect other os in the system.

I see.. so this is where the keys from shopping platforms come into play.. are most of them reliable?

 

[SEvsNK]

I see.. so this is where the keys from shopping platforms come into play.. are most of them reliable?

I bought mine from CDkeys Used them for about 2 years, so far bo taichi.

Taobao might be even cheaper there as i got my office key for less than a dollar

 

[NightRaven49]

I see.. so this is where the keys from shopping platforms come into play.. are most of them reliable?

ive used keys from taobao for both my personal pc/laptop and builds ive sold to other ppl. if ur lucky and the seller is running a promo, u can get keys for like 50 cents or less.

 

[Gr3yham3]

ive used keys from taobao for both my personal pc/laptop and builds ive sold to other ppl. if ur lucky and the seller is running a promo, u can get keys for like 50 cents or less.

Wah so cheap? I see like lazada ppl selling for $15... can the bros here PM me your sources for these keys?