Gł - Windows > All Platforms + General: Can I Install my Operating System on More Than One Computer?

An often asked question in the various forums is, "Can I install my Windows Operating System on my other system?" This if often asked in various forms but the answer is always the same. No. You may install the Operating System on only one computer at a time. This is clearly stated in the EULA (End-User License Agreement) that came with Windows.

If you'd like to read the EULA:

Press the Start button
Click on Run
Type "winver" (without the quotes)
Press the Enter button or click Okay
In the About Windows window Click on End-User License Agreement

The wording in section 1.1 applies and this is a quote from the EULA:

1.1 Installation and use. You may install, use, access, display and run one copy of the Software on a single computer, such as a workstation, terminal or other device ("Workstation Computer").

While on the subject, it would be good to know the about the ability to transfer the software to another person (by sale or gift of with the PC itself) and the rules that govern that. Section 13 deals with that:

The initial user of the Software may make a one-time permanent transfer of this EULA and Software to another end user, provided the initial user retains no copies of the Software. This transfer must include all of the Software (including all component parts, the media and printed materials, any upgrades, this EULA, and, if applicable, the Certificate of Authenticity).

Note: This EULA from above is copied from a Windows XP Professional installation. The verbiage in your EULA may differ slightly though the rules are the same for all flavors other than Volume Licensed software which allows installation on the number of computers for which you've purchased licenses.

OS: All Platforms > General
Date: 01/15/06