Did a clean install, but key is for upgrade? How to not have to reinstall everything?

[excellsior]

Hey guys, I setup a computer for my brother and did a fresh install of Windows 7. I wasn't asked to enter any key so I continued to install programs/etc.

After a week my brother said Windows was asking for a key so I gave him the key I bought. However, it was for an upgrade to Win 7 and won't allow him to register the key.

Is there a way I can do something so that I won't have to go back and reinstall Vista/Media Center Edition and then upgrade to Win 7?

 

[devil22]

You can run an upgrade of Windows 7 while booted into the unactivated Windows 7 you installed. Or you can buy a legit non-upgrade key. I've seen guides around to using an upgrade key on a clean install, can't remember where right now maybe someone else will link one.

edit - this link may help: http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows-7/clean-install-windows-7-with-upgrade-media.aspx

 

[excellsior]

Thanks, I will try some of those methods out there.

If anyone has any other tips, I'm all ears

 

[Demon10000]

Try method 2 from the link above; it should work for you.

 

[excellsior]

Thanks guys! I was able to use my key and the issue is resolved.

 

[grss1982cvg]

Thanks guys! I was able to use my key and the issue is resolved.

Was it with method 2 of this link? http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows-7/clean-install-windows-7-with-upgrade-media.aspx