Where to download Windows Vista image? I got cd-key!

[ERU]

Hi all,

Does anyone know where I can get a legal copy of a Windows Vista image?

I have to wipe WinXP off a work laptop and noticed it has a Windows Vista Business OEM key on the bottom. I've software recovered the cd-keys for both WinXP and the installed Office 2003; so plan to wipe it all and start a new fresh install. It was managed by RM but their contract on the laptop expired and we need to get rid of the associated bloatware.

Cheers

PS: anyone replying to this thread that links to illegal downloads or even discussing illegal downloads could be banned permanently!

[ERU]

I was sure it was available on the Microsoft site once? But after an age of searching I can't see where on the MS site. All the links just say it's no longer sold and point towards Windows 7 now ...
The closest I can now get is THIS.

I've also found THIS but when I enter the COA label I get a 'End User Media Replacement CD £15.09!'

[huwwatkins]

Depending on where you work your IT department might be able to get you an installation disc for nothing. Where I work has a site license so had a few spare discs. Failing that you could always try phoning the laptop manufacturer and try blagging a free disc.

[Jonj1611]

Yeah, you will probably have to buy it from Microsoft or ebay or somewhere. I had the same problem once and I never could find a reliable legal download. I did get an image from somewhere but turned out to be infected with all sorts.

Alternatively, and as its the business edition its probably unlikely, maybe see if any friends have the disc.

[Ferral]

You could just borrow the disc from a friend and then when you install it enter your legit key. Either that or contact Microsoft and get the media replaced which is about £15 which you have mentioned already.

There were trial copies available but the trouble is finding them now, if you could find one then you could sort it from there, just entering you key when trial is up.


I will mention now also, anyone replying to this thread that links to illegal downloads or even discussing illegal downloads will be banned permanently

[ERU]

There were trial copies available but the trouble is finding them now, if you could find one then you could sort it from there, just entering you key when trial is up.

Yeah it seems MS has pulled the ones on their site. So if anyone sees a mirror, perhaps on an associate site I guess this will be all I have to fall back on.

I will mention now also, anyone replying to this thread that links to illegal downloads or even discussing illegal downloads will be banned permanently

I can only echo this comment. I am looking for a legal / virus free version.

[blueball]

Had a look at Technet and the Business Edition is not available there either (all the other versions are - weird)

[huwwatkins]

How does this stand from a legal standpoint? I always thought that if you had the license for something then how you got the install media was of little consequence?

[kalniel]

How does this stand from a legal standpoint? I always thought that if you had the license for something then how you got the install media was of little consequence?

No, a license allows you to install something on your computer, it doesn't exempt you from any existing copyright or contract laws.

[ERU]

No, a license allows you to install something on your computer, it doesn't exempt you from any existing copyright or contract laws.

As i'm finding out to my detriment

[Drake90]

Hi, sup guys? Hmm...about cd-keys well I recall that on such sites like buy play etc. you can buy cd-keys to various games and programs. However I am not quite sure about its legality and how does it really work. Anyway if you have time, you can always check.