Windows 10: Issues with Windows Activation After Changing Hardware

Recently I got a new motherboard for my PC and replaced the old one without any issues. Shortly after I booted up my computer with the new motherboard, I got the message requesting me to activate Windows through settings because the Windows license wasn't transferred to the new motherboard, I thought it was no big deal and would be a simple process. I have my account verified and it carries a Windows 10 Home digital license. I looked up how to transfer your license to a new motherboard after a change of hardware and it once again seemed very simple. I went through the troubleshooter, selected that I recently changed hardware and even put in my account password. When I got the screen to select which device I wanted to transfer to, I selected the new motherboard I've been using (It's a Gigabyte brand motherboard btw) and clicked activate. One second later after I clicked activate it told me that it was unable to activate Windows. I have no idea why it told me this, I obtained my legit and legal copy of Windows 10 Home for free when Microsoft was doing their free offer for it and I have a digital license linked to my Microsoft account.


If anyone could help me fix this issue or explain to me why this may have happened that would be great, thank you.

:)

 

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.

 

ACTIVATION ISSUE

Hi,

Activation issues with Windows 10 devices are usually caused due to some hardware changes. For us to provide an effective resolution, we would need you to answer the following questions:

• What changes have you made to your devices before this issue occurred?
• Are your computers connected to a domain?
• What troubleshooting steps have you done so far?

In the meantime, we suggest visiting these links. These can be used as a reference on how to activate Windows 10:

• Activation in Windows 10.
• Find your Windows product key.

We are looking forward to your response.