Retrieving my Vista serial

[Ethan_Kaizer]

I currently have Windows Vista Ultimate 64 bit. I'm going to be changing my motherboard tomorrow, and I'm going to need to reinstall an OS. I don't have the serial key because I bought this computer pre-built. Is there any way I can retrieve the serial key from my computer? Also, is there a way I can legally download Vista so I can use my serial key (if possible)?

If not, I got this Server 2008 copy I can use, but I'm kind of skeptical about that. Is everything that's compatible with Vista compatible with Server 2008? Is it hard to make it into a usable OS to game on in DX10?

 

[Nick]

works fine:

SourceForge.net: Downloading ...

and yes it's legal to torrent a OEM copy of windows as long as it isn't cracked.

 

[Ethan_Kaizer]

and yes it's legal to torrent a OEM copy of windows as long as it isn't cracked.

Ok thanks a bunch.

Is there a place from the Windows site or something I can dl it from though?

 

[Nick]

I highly doubt it, search for legal and untouched copies on torrent sites, look at the description to make sure it's not hacked.

 

[Ethan_Kaizer]

works fine:

SourceForge.net: Downloading ...

and yes it's legal to torrent a OEM copy of windows as long as it isn't cracked.

That program worked perfectly. I just opened it up, and the serial was right there.

 

[KSoD]

As they said it is legal to download a Vista DVD. The serial is what matters and covered by the EULA and all that stuff. You aint that far i could snail mail you a copy in a day or 2.

 

[Ethan_Kaizer]

As they said it is legal to download a Vista DVD. The serial is what matters and covered by the EULA and all that stuff. You aint that far i could snail mail you a copy in a day or 2.

I highly appreciate the offer, but fortunately it turns out that my friend who I'm helping build a new computer just got Vista Ultimate 64 bit, so I can just use his disc. High five!

 

[KSoD]

It will only work if he bought a OEM version to match your OEM version. If he bought Retail then the serial you have wont work cause you have a OEM serial.

 

[Ethan_Kaizer]

How do I know if a copy is OEM or not? I know both of our computers are home built computers, so I assume both copies were bought retail.

 

[carnageX]

It would say 'Retail' on the disc, or 'OEM' or something similar. Will also say if its OEM or not on his serial sticker (as will yours).