Users may want to upgrade to Windows Vista without an existing version of Windows 2000 or XP installed on the computer. Unfortunately, Microsoft requires users upgrading to Windows Vista to begin the upgrade process in Windows 2000 or XP. If you try upgrading to Windows Vista by booting to the Vista upgrade CD, you receive the message below.

To use the product key you entered, start the installation from your existing version of Windows.

If you want a fresh copy of Windows Vista and do not have Windows 2000 or XP installed on the computer, try one of the options below. Both options require you to install an operating system twice. We recommend following the first workaround option.

  • Boot to the Windows Vista CD and start the Windows Vista setup.
  • When prompted to enter the product key for activation, do not enter your activation key and click Next.
  • You get an install Windows prompt asking if you want to enter your product key now. Click No.
  • Select the edition of Windows XP you’ve purchased, check the box “I have selected the edition of Windows that I purchased” and click Next.
  • After setup completes and Windows Vista loads, start the Windows setup again by ejecting and loading the CD again or by double-clicking the CD drive in My Computer.
  • During the Windows Vista setup when prompted for the activation key this time enter it.
  • When prompted to do an Upgrade or Custom install select Custom and perform a clean Windows Vista install.

or

  • Delete the partition and reinstall Windows 2000 or Windows XP using the 2000 or XP CD.
  • After 2000 or XP is installed, update the operating systems with all the latest Windows updates.
  • Then install Windows Vista upgrade or do the custom install and perform a clean Windows Vista install.

If you want a separate, clean installation of Windows, make this decision during the Vista install process. Select the option for Custom install during installation and follow the on-screen instructions.

  • How to install the Microsoft Windows operating system.
  • Microsoft Windows help and support.