Can operating system be infected with malware or virus?

[ry2929]

My last computer was infected. I've built a new one with pretty much everything brand new except I'll be using the same windows 8 CD and product key as my old computer. Could this infect my new computer? Sorry if this is a dumb question.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

If your not using the same storage device windows was loaded onto your fine.

 

[ry2929]

Ya literally everything is brand new except the the case, cd/dvd drive, and old windows 8 key. So I should be ok?

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

Yes you are 100% good to go!

 

[danny2000]

Your first comment was that you were re-using the same CD that was used on the infected computer, and not just the key; This could be a problem: Where did you get that Windows 8 CD?