Member Avatar for JacobJMLP

how to: make windows think I have a HP computer while I have a thoshiba?

I have some Legal windows7 dvd's but can onley juse them win I have a HP(than I must not enter key) or windows recognize a HP computer but I don't now how to do that.

Jacob

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For : two different things are being mixed together — the installer image on the DVD and the Windows license/product key tied to a machine. Identifying which one is present (manufacturer recovery media, OEM installer, retail disc, or upgrade media) determines what will work on a Toshiba and what is allowed under Microsoft’s licensing rules.

How to identify the disc and what it will do: check the printed label or sleeve for phrases like "System Recovery", "For distribution with a new PC only", "OEM", "Upgrade", or "Retail/Full". A recovery/OEM disc typically boots straight into an automated restore and never asks for a key; a retail installer will normally prompt for a product key and requires the installed edition (Home/Pro/Ultimate) to match the key. If the disc is recovery media made for HP, it is tailored to HP machines and often won’t proceed or activate on non‑HP hardware.

Quick checks from the existing Windows system (if available): run the Windows licensing utilities to see activation details and any embedded key.

slmgr /dli
slmgr /dlv
slmgr /xpr
wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey

Note: OA3/Bios‑embedded key retrieval works better on Windows 8 and newer; Windows 7 systems often rely on a printed COA sticker for the original key (look under the battery or on the laptop bottom).

Practical, legal paths forward (building on points from and ): if the DVD is an HP recovery disc, obtain either a retail Windows 7 installation disc plus a retail product key, or get Toshiba recovery media designed for that machine. If the license on the DVD is a retail license it can be used on another machine (matching edition), but OEM licenses are normally tied to the original PC. Avoid BIOS hacks, keygens, or activation cracks — they are illegal and risk system stability. Following the identification steps above will show which legal option is appropriate.

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Member Avatar for JorgeM

Can you elaborate on what you are trying to accomplish? Windows itself is not dedicated to a specific piece of hardware. If both systems are on the Hardware Compatibility list, Windows will install on either system.

With regard to licensing though, if you bought a computer and it came with Windows 7, that license was assigned to that device. Its not that the key provided wouldnt work on a different piece of hardware, it is that their EULA does not allow for transferring licenses from one system to another.

Member Avatar for rubberman

You are going to need to purchase a retail version of Windows for this system. HP versions of Windows are locked to HP hardware (sometimes specific models). They are OEM copies that check for identifying information on the system when they boot up.

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