Windows 7 Upgrade?

[transmit]

So heres my situation.

Just came home for the Summer to find out my parents (as per usual) have destroyed their home PC in some way or another. This time the issue is that Windows is somehow not believing it is a genuine version, currently Windows Vista 64 bit, and due to the age of this computer I no longer have the product key nor the original install files.

So my plan was to get a fresh install of Windows 7 while I still have student discount, and make it a genuine version. The problem is I can only find Student versions of the "Upgrade" version of Windows 7, apparently they don't do the full version at a discounted price.

On microsofts website they said

"If you purchase the full version of Windows 7, you can format your hard drive, and then install Windows 7. If you purchase the upgrade version of Windows 7 and want to format your hard drive, you'll need to start (or boot) your computer from the Windows 7 installation disc or a USB flash drive, and then perform a custom installation."

So I guess the question is, can I install fully to a fresh reformatted HDD from the upgrade version, and will I get a product key to make it genuine?

[hey]

Yes, you can do a fresh install with that.

Alternatively just pirate it, to remove that pesky not genuine nonsense.

[xerodok]

When you purchase Windows 7 (with your student discount) -- you get access to download a .iso of Windows 7. After you burn it to a DVD/put it on an external HDD, you can boot the computer with that image and have the option to either Upgrade or Reformat, or 'both.' There's an option to upgrade but keep most of your programs/files/etc. After the installation is successful, you'll be able to input your product key.

So the answer to your question is, yes, you can install it onto a freshly formatted HDD.

[transmit]

And I'll receive a product key when I buy the upgrade version? (As I dont have the original productk ey).

Thanks for the help so far.

[hey]

Yes, of course.

[transmit]

Cool thanks a lot. I was worried that the product key needed for the upgrade would be the original Windows Vista one.

Thanks a lot for all the help

[Seanr]

why dont you just get a program that will tell you the product key, although Win7 upgrade is still a better choice. Or hell, just download remove WAT etc etc...

[SephYuyX]

Magic Jelly Bean

[Rellikard]

Or SIW

[Jonny]

Just do the upgrade and format the hdd using the disk. it will let you use it as full install. It's the best thing I did to my 2nd pc.