You have to pay very close attention to the license badge. It will clearly spell out what version of Windows is supported. If it’s a Dell computer, it’s likely an OEM copy of the OS, which is licensed different than an off-the-shelf retail copy you’d buy at a retail store or online. The product key will only work if the copy of the OS is appropriate to the key itself, so any message about not being “eligible for a reinstall” likely came from Dell or a third-party. Microsoft would never issue a message like that.
FWIW, you can buy copies of Win7 Home for dirt cheap now, but I’d understand if you went with something free (i.e. Linux). Either call Dell and get an ISO copy of the OEM OS or call Microsoft to activate. Microsoft support is easy to reach. The problem I’ve found is that once you’re in, don’t let them off the phone until the problem is resolved or your ticket gets lost. This even happens with premier support like I have for my enterprise agreement.
License badge is for Win 7 Home Pro. That is what I downloaded and tried to recover, then installed. That is what the machine had on it, I am pretty sure the original owner did not do an upgrade. She is not capable of that.
It probably was OEM version.
Will contact Microsoft first, see where that goes. Would like a later version of OS if I go with them. If not I’m sure I can get Win 7 Home Pro reinstall disc from Dell. I have established relationship, family member works for them.