Windows 10: I recently changed hardware and did not link my windows to an account, and cannot find a...

I recently changed some hardware CPU, RAM, Motherboard and didn't link anything to my microsoft account as I had no idea that was a thing that needed to be done- now I can't seem to activate Windows 10.

I got the free upgrade to 10 and don't have a product key for it. Obviously I don't want to pay for a new copy when I have a legitimate version already.

:)

 

Still cannot reactivate after hardware change, even though having linked the digital license to the Microsoft account I am now using

Hi,

I have just upgraded my PC, with motherboard, processor and RAM changed, and a new SSD installed.

The SSD is my main drive with a clean install of Windows 10 Pro.

I had searched for method to "migrate" the existing license to my new Windows 10 and found that there is a "digital license" which can be linked to my Microsoft account for reactivation after hardware change.

I then checked if mine has linked, and found that it was already done.

I jotted down the Windows version and my Microsoft account at that time, just in case I'd forget which one I was using.

After the upgrade and Windows clean install to the new SSD, I followed the steps on a Microsoft page to reactivate.

1. In the troubleshooter, select I changed hardware on this device recently, and then select Next.

2. Enter your Microsoft account and password, and then select Sign in.

3. From the list of devices that are linked to your Microsoft account........

Here is where I can stop, because I do not see any list now. What I can see is failed to activate Windows, and said it cannot find any linked Microsoft account, bla bla bla.

Under these lines, there is also a link for me to check all Linked device to my Microsoft account. Interestingly, I cannot see my previous device.

So, may I know what can I do to get my Linked digital license back? Please advice.

 

Recent Hardware Change

I recently changed some of the hardware in my PC and now my product key isn't active anymore. I have tried the steps that microsoft offers to fix the issue but my PC cannot identify my product key prior to the hardware change. I cannot call microsoft because
I am living in Japan, and microsoft japan doesn't have an english option. Is there a way to talk to microsoft directly other than the automated chat or the toll line which i cannot call from japan?

 

Cannot link/add my Microsoft Account to Local Account

Hello Ken,

Im using Win10 Build 1607 with all latest update.

I also run all related troubleshooters:

• Windows Update
• Store Apps (says i have to login in my microsoft account but thats the problem, i can't)
• Microsoft Accounts

No Problem found. Also the suggestions from Microsoft didnt helped.