Windows 7 OA Media

[Dagwulf]

HP Media is BIOS locked... no key is required; install and go!

Rogean mentioned he does not want to use the HP media though, because of the HP utilities that come with it.

So you can either use some random (Genuine) OEM disc to install, and the OEM key code on the COA sticker may work and activate fine, or you may need to get another activation code.

Or you can use the OLP Media you used for the first installation, and also use your MAK (multiple activation key) which you should retrieve from the MS Volume License Services Website (Google eopen, first result).

OR.... just use the HP recovery media that came with the systems... honestly, the utilities HP packs in are very good and one of the reasons HP is better then a lot of the competition for Tier 1 systems (such as HP ProtectTools).


As for "OA" versus "OEM"..... If it has a Certificate of Authenticity (COA sticker) on the PC, it is OEM.

There are 3 types of license only:
1) OEM - this is a license sold pre-loaded on a new PC and is locked to that PC (not transferable). OEM is the most common and most cost effective way to buy a Windows License.
2) FPP - Retail Box (Fully Packaged Product) - this is more expensive, but comes with additional license rights, such as transferability.
3) OLP - Open License Program. For Windows Operating system license, this is an upgrade license only (so the license can only be applied to a system with an existing valid Windows OS license).


Hope that makes sense?