Windows Operating System Question?

Question

Im building a new computer from the ground up. The computer that I am using to type this question has a great operating system. With the factor of building a new computer, I dont want to buy another Operating system package and a optical drive. Is there a way to transfer my current computers operating system to my soon-to-be-built computer? For example through USB?

Answer 1

If the operating system came with the computer then NO.



If you went out and bought it and it does not say OEM then maybe.



Windows once installed locks itself to the hardware, usually the motherboard, changing other parts is expected, but change the motherboard and you need not only to re-install windows but to have a new activation key produced by microsoft. They only provide this VIA RETAIL products.

Answer 2

You'll need to find out what operating system you have. You may right click "My Computer" and go to properties. It will tell you which Windows version you have.



Installing through USB is relatively straight forward, similar to installing from a CD Drive.

You'll need an ISO file of your desired Windows system, and an USB flash drive with at least 4 GB of memory capacity. You will also need a software which allows you to make the USB bootable, you can try something like:



http://unetbootin.sourceforge.net/

http://www.pendrivelinux.com/universal-usb-installer-easy-as-1-2-3/

http://rufus.akeo.ie/



Once you've chosen, plug in your USB drive and open the software, then select your drive's letter, and the ISO file. Once everything is extracted, boot from the USB drive by pressing F12 (or the equivalent) when your computer starts.



Good luck.

Answer 3

Generally, Windows OS is not transferable unless it is a Retail version. However, you simply cannot transfer the exact contents to another computer unless the specs are exactly or more or less the same. I doubt that is your case.



What I would suggest is that if you have a retail version and you have the product key (use this one: http://www.nirsoft.net/utils/product_cd_key_viewer.html), borrow a Windows installer disk or download it in ISO format and transfer it to a flash drive so you can boot from it and install the OS.

Answer 4

Here's what to do;

http://pcsupport.about.com/od/windows7/a/install-windows-7-usb.htm



Here's where to find the proper Win7 ISO:

http://www.w7forums.com/threads/official-windows-7-sp1-iso-image-downloads.12325/



My best advice, is find your Windows seven key. It may be on a sticker on the computer, or you may have to use this software (or similar) to find your key:

http://pcsupport.about.com/od/productkeysactivation/gr/mjbkeyfinder.htm



Now, depending on your key I cannot guarantee that you will be able to activate your OS on the new computer, but it's worth a shot, right?