How do I transfer preloaded MS Office to new computer?

I may need to replace my current laptop, which runs Windows XP and had the
full MS Office Small Business suite preloaded. I do not have the
installation CD (it was preloaded), but could get one (my wife has the CD
from when she bought it), but I suspect I would need my license key to
register the software if loaded from her CD.

Alternatively, I could theoretically migrate my entire existing hard drive
to the new machine, but suspect there would be multiple issues with that.

I saw one response that simply said this couldn't be done, though there was
no explanation or alternative solutions given. I would hope that, given that
I licensed the software in the first place, the software should be portable.

Any viable suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

thx!

"Hossdaddy" wrote in message
...
I may need to replace my current laptop, which runs Windows XP and had the
full MS Office Small Business suite preloaded. I do not have the
installation CD (it was preloaded), but could get one (my wife has the CD
from when she bought it), but I suspect I would need my license key to
register the software if loaded from her CD.

Umm no. If it was pre-installed it is 99.9% probable an OEM version which is
forever tied to the first machine it is installed on.
Secondly, as your wife 99.9% probably purchased a RETAIL version as opposed
to an OEM version, the Product keys are not inter-usable.
I'm afraid you will need to buy a new licence..



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