Windows 10: Changed SSD and Processor and cant activate my windows license.

Good MorningWell, I was doing some upgrades on my computer, such as an bigger SSD and a better processor, when I changed that, I had to format my computer, but ok, my license is linked to my account or even my motherboard, but, it is? I've finished the process, and ok, my license wasn't activated, so I went on "I changed hardware on this device recently" but it wont work for some reason on the right license I also have a notebook in the same acc, I tried everything i could, it would not work, I even booted the old SSD, and guess what? it is activated, but it doesn't show up at the list of ol

:)

 

Activating Windows 10 on new SSD

Hi there

I have the Windows 10 Pro 64 bit version with an OEM license activated on my laptop. I would like to replace my HDD with an SSD. I would like to understand how to activate the license on the new SSD. Please note that i would prefer to do a fresh install
of the OS rather than cloning my HDD to SSD. Would the license be activated automatically or would there be any other steps involved. Please note that i would
not be changing the motherboard, just the hard drive. Thanks in advance for your help and support.

 

Activation after SSD change

Thank you for your reply.

I think that I used license linked to account. At past I had product key, but after update to windows 10 or sth it was no longer needed for reinstall.

When I bought new SSD a few days ago I installed windows 11 on it and moved my data from the old one with windows still installed on it. Then I deleted the old SSD. I thought that windows would activate after that like always but it didnt.

Then I tried the option of HW change in activation setting but it didnt worked for me...it said the license is already in use on another device.

So i went to microsoft account (like you recomended me) and saw 2 devices here. I deleted both, restarted PC and signed to my account again...now it says it couldnt find any devices linked to my account that could be used to activate this device.

Between those steps I made other attempts where it said that it couldnt reach the servers although the internet was working...I dont know exactly between which steps it occured...but I assume it isnt important.

Im quite confused and worried about losing my license.

 

Activating Windows 11 after a hardware change

Thanks for reaching out! I'm an Independent Advisor and a Microsoft user like you.

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you reactivate your Windows 11:

1. Check Activation Status:
   
   • Open Settings.
     
   • Go to System > Activation.
     
   • Ensure that your Windows is listed as activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.
     
2. Link Microsoft Account:
   
   • If your Microsoft account is not linked, you need to link it first.
     
   • In Settings, go to Accounts and ensure your Microsoft account is linked to your Windows.
     
3. Run Activation Troubleshooter:
   
   • Go to Settings > System > Activation.
     
   • Click on Troubleshoot.
     
   • The troubleshooter will detect that Windows can't be activated on your device.
     
4. Select Hardware Change Option:
   
   • In the troubleshooter, select I changed hardware on this device recently.
     
5. Sign In to Microsoft Account:
   
   • Enter your Microsoft account credentials.
     
   • From the list of devices linked to your Microsoft account, select the checkbox next to This is the device I’m using right now.
     
   • If you don’t see your device, ensure you are signed in with the correct Microsoft account.
     
6. Activate Windows:
   
   • Click Activate.
     

If you encounter issues where the edition does not match, it is likely because the digital license linked to your account is for Windows 10 Home, and you are now running Windows 11 Home. This mismatch can sometimes cause activation issues.

• Edition Mismatch: If the troubleshooter indicates an edition mismatch, ensure that you are using the same edition of Windows that was originally linked to your digital license. In your case, both should be Home editions, so this should not be an issue.
  
• Correct Microsoft Account: Double-check that you are using the same Microsoft account that was linked to your digital license.
  

Please do let me know if the method I suggested works for you or if you need further assistance.