Windows 10: I want to change my hardware and transfer my license but this is listed at my activation...

I bought my pc from a gigabyte store in the past, from there I bought a copy of windows 11 pro and the worker there installed it from me. Since I bought a custom pc I have all the boxes for parts and such. and now I wanted to upgrade my mobo, and wanted to know if i could use my existing license for it as well. I don't have the product key or don't know where it is. And I cant ask them for the key since their store has been shut down ever since.Soo what should I do now? I have my Microsoft account logged in as administrator. Should i be able to transfer licenses or no?or do i need a new instal

:)

 

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.

 

Windows 10 license transfer

Thanks Andre.

i bought the license. My laptop was originally loaded with win 7 and was upgraded free couple of months.

in this case, if i understand you correctly, i can transfer with below steps. Right.?

let me buy my new laptop and try below.

and to my question do you have an update.

does OS upgrades if my activation key is changed.

thanks

sai

 

Activate Windows after Hardware Change

It depends on how Windows 10 was originally configured on your computer.

If its a full retail store bought license online or offline, it is transferable to a new computer or motherboard.

If its the free upgrade from a retail store bought Windows 7 or Windows 8 license, it is transferable to a new computer or motherboard.

If its the free upgrade from a OEM preinstalled Windows 7 or Windows 8 license, it is NOT transferable to a new computer or motherboard.

Learn more about transferring your license:

• How to Transfer your Windows 10 License to a New Computer

Also see:

• Activate Your Windows 10 License via Microsoft Chat Support