Testing if Windows product key is valid
I want to buy a Windows Vista product key from what appears to be an old laptop. I was wondering how I can test if it still works (because I am aware of certain limitations on the number of computer you can register a key on). The idea I had is to create a VM with Windows Vista, disconnect it from the Internet and then use the key on it. If it works - just delete the VM.
Should this work in practice?
Also is it possible the key to be tied to the specific laptop it came from?
Thank you in advance.
Answer
You need to take care about OEM keys (attached to the material). If Vista came preinstalled on your computer, or you bought an OEM Licence/Download, it is classified as an OEM licence and is non-transferable.
Check if a key is an OEM key
Open a command line on your old computer and type :
slmgr.vbs /dlv
If you have an OEM key you will see at the third line :
Description: Windows(R) Operating System, OEM_DM channel
For a retail version you will see later in the text :
mx?configextension=Retail
If you have a retail key there is no problem, you may transfer it to another computer/laptop as much as you want. But, it may only be installed on one computer at a time. Your old computer will be automatically desactivated.