Is it illegal to download Vista Premium off torrents if I have a key?

Question

I purchased a sony laptop and it had vista premium. One of my friends had vista ultimate so I just installed for the trial (I have recovery disks for original copy) anyway, one the trial expired I put my recovery disk in and it said its not valid with the current operating system. So I borrowed a copy of vista premium and installed it, then I tried the recovery disk again and it said its not valid with the currnt operating system, and I realized it because the copy of vista i installed was 64-bit and the recovery disks are made for 32-bit. And I dont have access to 32-bit vista so i was wondering if it would be legal to download 32-bit vista premium off a torrent website (id be using an original serial key.)

Im pretty good with computers but ive never come accross anything similar to this.

Thanks

Answer 1

Downloading it from a Torrent is still illegal since they don't hold rights to mass distribute it like a store would. If you have your own CD Key it is not illegal to use another copy of the same version to reinstall it. Best thing to do is to get a new copy from Sony. You can get a replacement disc for a few bucks. You will need to provide them your CD Key or proof of purchase to get a replacement disc. It's not free but you also run the risk of the torrent not being what it's supposed to be. There can be all sorts of problems with programs on torrents, you are better off with a real copy. Sony, and other computer manufactures, use OEM versions of Windows. Which means they pay less for the copy of the program because they will provide the tech support for Windows and not MS.

Answer 2

technically speaking, yes it is illegal.  However, you will need to download an oem copy if you intend to use a sony oem key.  There are software distributers and anti p2p companies out there seeding these torrents as well so you do run the risk of having a complaint of internet abuse files with your isp.  I doubt they would listen to your explanation as they arent very friendly about that sort of thing.  You should be able to contact microsoft and explain the situation.  I think they charge like $10 for a replacement disk and their shipping is super fast.

Answer 3

ya you can but use only original key. download windows vista from www.torrentz.com  

Answer 4

contact sony. they will provice a restore cd specifically for the laptop. This will NOT cost you the cost of a replacement license, because, as your rightly point out, you paid for the license when you bought the laptop.

You may find there is an issue using a generic install cd with the license key on the laptop. Often they are incompatable.

You are also going into illegal territory if you install the OS on your machine with a license key you have not paid for.

Answer 5

The software is pretty much useless without a key, so I think you're in the clear just this once atleast.