Windows 10: Can't Activate Windows 10 After a Hardware Change

I recently changed out my motherboard and CPU, and actually everything except the graphics card and hard drive. While the upgrade fixed many of my issues, I have a new one: Windows 10 will not activate on my new setup. I went through the troubleshooter, and clicked on "I changed hardware recently" but it only shows my previous setup. However, when I go to my Microsoft account and look at the devices linked to the account, it does show my newest hardware. Regardless, the troubleshooter will not show my new hardware. It's probably important to mention I got Window 10 through the free upgrade from Windows 8.1, and probably also important to mention that I copied that key from a laptop in order to put it on my last machine (the one I upgraded). I'm not sure if that means I have a product key or a digital license. I'm also not sure that that laptop functions anymore, so I'm not sure I can get the key I used. I'm currently charging it, so hopefully that goes somewhere. But just in case, I'm putting this out to the community. Thank you for any help you can offer.

:)

 

windows activation—hardware changed siginficantly

From time to time on my thoroughbred PC, I get a Windows activation message that says my hardware changed siginificantly and I have to re-activate Windows. My hardware hasn't changed any more than a network card (went from a wireless g card to onboard lan to a wired network card), and the install is legit. Why is it doing this, and how can I stop it?

 

Activation problems after hardware changes and reinstallations.

Hi Meli,

Thank you for posting the query on Microsoft Community.

I do appreciate your efforts and time.

Was Windows 10 activated before re-installing it?

Along with the suggestions provided by Greg, you can also refer the steps below.



The only hardware changes that can negatively impact activation status once you upgrade to free version are the changes to the:

• CPU
• TPM
• Motherboard replacement

The following changes are examples of hardware changes that will NOT impact the activation status:

• HDD/SSD
• Video card
• Adding extra memory

If you replace the CPU, TPM, or Motherboard you may have to re-activate but this will not require a purchase of Windows 10.

Why can't I activate Windows 10?:

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-10/why-activate-windows-10

Get help with Windows 10 activation errors:

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-10/activation-errors-windows-10

Can I clean re-install Windows 10 after upgrading?

Can I clean re-install Windows 10 after upgrading?

Hope this helps in resolving the issue. If the issue persists, do get back to us. We will be happy to assist you.

 

Windows can´t activate after hardware change.

Hi Elias,

When you make important hardware changes such as replacing the motherboard or hard drive, Windows 10
is unable to identify your computer correctly. As a result, the operating system won't activate.

To help you resolve your concern, add your Microsoft account and link it to the digital license. You may refer to the steps provided on this

link. The link has steps on how to add your Microsoft account and use the Activation troubleshooter.

Should you need further assistance, don't hesitate to let us know.