Microsoft Action Pack vs Technet [duplicate]

Possible Duplicate:
Can you help me with my software licensing question?

I have debated for a couple of years whether or not to purchase Microsoft's Action Pack (took the tests, and currently qualify to purchase it). I am mainly concerned with this question:

Does the Action Pack contain 10 "Full" (not just an upgrade) version of Windows 7 Pro?

The description says "Windows 7 licenses are upgrade licenses only", but a couple people I have talked to said they are able to do clean/full installs, without needing a previous Windows OS installed.

Then the next main question would be, How does Technet subscription compare to the Action Pack when it comes to the above concern regarding Windows 7 licensing.


The key difference is: how do you intend to use the software from your subscription? If you are planning to use it for actual work, then the Action Pack is your only legal option.

  • Action Pack subscriptions provide fully licensed software for your internal use in your business. Note that there are some restrictions on direct revenue-generating activities.

  • TechNet subscriptions are for evaluation purposes only. (detailed list of permitted uses)

The Windows 7 "upgrade" licensing is a paperwork requirement only. If you insert a brand new hard drive into a computer with a Windows XP OEM license sticker and run the installation, your Action Pack license key will work fine. You do not need to preinstall an old version of Windows.