How to perform a clean install using a upgrade cd-key

  • Thread starter Thread starter Guest
  • Start date Start date
G

Guest

I got a vista hp express upgrade when i purchase winxp, so i wanted to do a
clean installation of my computer (as in format harddisk then install vista),
so I decided to boot from my vista cd. When i entered my cd-key, the
installation program told me that the cd key can only be used to upgrade and
to start the setup from my existing windows installation. in other words, i
have to run the setup within windows xp to upgrade to vista. that would
defeat the purpose of performing a clean install. is there a way to do so
without runnning it within windows xp?
 
Yes, but it is a pain.

First boot from the CD and do the install, but do NOT give it a key. It
will allow a clean install. Install HP (you'll be given an option). This
will install Vista in trial mode. Do NOT activate it.

Boot into your newly installed trial copy.

From within Vista, run the install again. This time, do an upgrade and
give it your key. It will install on top of itself, but the same version
so nothing will really change. At this point you can activate it.

This quirky method works because Vista can upgrade Vista.

Tom
 
If you wish to perform an absolute clean install of Windows Vista,
you would have to purchase a "full version". You cannot use an
upgrade version of Vista unless you have either Windows 2000
or Windows XP already installed.

How to Install or Reinstall Windows Vista
http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/Windows/en-US/Help/e77344fa-e978-464c-953e-eba44f0522671033.mspx

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows - Shell/User

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:

I got a vista hp express upgrade when i purchase winxp, so i wanted to do a
clean installation of my computer (as in format harddisk then install vista),
so I decided to boot from my vista cd. When i entered my cd-key, the
installation program told me that the cd key can only be used to upgrade and
to start the setup from my existing windows installation. in other words, i
have to run the setup within windows xp to upgrade to vista. that would
defeat the purpose of performing a clean install. is there a way to do so
without runnning it within windows xp?
 
Wrong. The Microsoft product activation servers have
been reprogrammed to not activate an upgrade Vista license
unless the qualifying Windows license is also present.

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows - Shell/User

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It is well known by now that you are incorrect.
 
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