Windows 10: Previously used license keys, which one to re-use for a VM

Discus and support Previously used license keys, which one to re-use for a VM in Windows 10 Updates and Activation to solve the problem; I always been buying retail versions of Windows. Right now I have a few licenses from v7/8/8.1 upgraded to W10 and a single new retail license (USB... Discussion in 'Windows 10 Updates and Activation' started by tfwul, Jun 4, 2017.

  1. tfwul Win User

    Previously used license keys, which one to re-use for a VM


    I always been buying retail versions of Windows.
    Right now I have a few licenses from v7/8/8.1 upgraded to W10 and a single new retail license (USB thumbdrive) of Windows 10.

    The new retail version I use on my host pc.
    The 'upgraded' versions I have used/installed/uninstalled before on another pc or as VM, but all deactivated.

    I have the first/original v7/v8-license keys, but probably they became null and void after they have been upgraded to W10(?)

    There is 1 VM running using some 'upgraded' license key.
    I'd like to create a new, 2nd, VM, using another key.


    Here is the problem:
    Frankly, I have no idea how to proceed.
    I may install CU version from USB (media creation tool), but likely at one point in time I may need to enter a key.
    However, I don't know which key has been used for the existing VM, i.e. which of the remaining upgraded keys are 'free' to use.

    Any suggestions as to how to proceed. Is this a kind of trial and error and see which key is accepted?

    Thanks
    =

    :)
     
    tfwul, Jun 4, 2017
    #1
  2. Dr.Forbin Win User

    Transfer win 10 license

    Little confusing here - I'm burning a Win 10 license on a VM on my laptop now. I want to repurpose the license from this VM to a new brand new VM that I plan on building by importing my daughters desktop. I want to keep her desktop live - so I need to
    re-use the license. Problem is - I don't know if I have the original product key that I used to activate this VM. I know I can free the activation from this VM - but how do I reactivate under a fresh VM w/o the product key. Thanks....
     
    Dr.Forbin, Jun 4, 2017
    #2
  3. BulldogXX Win User
    Can I use Windows 10 VM (legal license) on two different Hosts (VirtualBox)?

    I know that a VM is considered like a physical computer and requires its own license, but I hadn't previously considered what happens when you move a VM to another computer. It seems logical that you can't have the same VM licensed on two computers. But
    can you move a VM from one computer to another while maintaining the VM's license?
     
    BulldogXX, Jun 4, 2017
    #3
  4. cereberus Win User

    Previously used license keys, which one to re-use for a VM

    Original keys always remain valid.

    You can still activate Windows 10 with 7/8 keys.

    So just install and use any key - it may object key is in use, if so try next one.

    Once it works, make note of key and which vm.
     
    cereberus, Jun 4, 2017
    #4
  5. tfwul Win User
    Many thanks indeed! Truly appreciate the quick feedback.
    Windows is now installing in VM in the background using a Windows 8 key.
    Again, thanks!
    =
     
    tfwul, Apr 5, 2018
    #5
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Previously used license keys, which one to re-use for a VM

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