Windows 10: Issue Activating Windows After Changing Motherboard and CPU

I recently upgraded my CPU and Motherboard, but after doing so my Windows 10 Pro is no longer activated. I haven't done anything to my hard drive, other than hooking it up to the new CPU and Motherboard. I've tried re-entering my Windows Product Key, but it gives me an error.

We can't activate Windows on this device because you don't have a valid digital license or product key. If you think you do have a valid license or key, select Troubleshoot below. Error code: 0xC004C003.

I've also tried using the troubleshoot tool in the Settings --> Update & Security --> Activation section. Clicking "I changed hardware on this device recently" doesn't display this computer, just another laptop I have. Clicking "See other devices linked to your Microsoft account" shows my wife's laptop, but still doesn't display this computer.


Essentially, it keeps telling me I need to buy another copy of Windows, but considering I already had Windows activated before the motherboard and CPU swap, there should be absolutely no reason that I need to buy another copy.

What do I need to do to get my Windows activated?

:)

 

Windows activation error

Hi Brandon,

Before replacing the Mother Board if Windows 10 was activated, then you can refer the steps/link below for activating Windows 10.

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.

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

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

 

Windows 10: Fitting a new motherboard and CPU

Hi,

Yes, you may change your Motherboard and CPU without a problem. To resolve your issue in case you encounter a problem, we suggest that you follow the steps in this

article which you can expand Activating Windows 10 after a hardware configuration change
and you can use an Activation troubleshooter if you get activation errors. The given link is previously provided by
'Mike P.

Let us know if you need further assistance.

 

Does Windows 10 Write Code into a Motherboard Bios Chip for Future Activation?

Hi MrCass,

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.

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