Windows 10: Just installed a Win 10 Home 64 bit System Builder OEM

Hi,

I have read several posts regarding the System Builder version of Windows before posting this as I can't find the answer I'm looking for.

I recently build my own desktop computer and not knowing the difference, ordered the System Builder OEM version of Windows 10. It came with its own key and the install went well.

However, about 10 days after the install, I had an issue while starting the computer with the mention "Preparing Automatic Repair" along with the blue screen of choosing with the different options between 1. continue to Windows 10, 2. Turn off PC, 3. use a device and 4. Troubleshoot.

After a few things done, scanning the C drive for errors and so on, everything seems to be working fine. I thought I'd have to redo a clean re-install but so far so good. I also did a clean re-install on my laptop (which I had upgraded from Window 8.1 and I had a windows key as well) using the same disc and I ended up with the same problem, i.e. the mention "Preparing Automatic Repair" along with the blue screen of choosing with the different options between 1. continue to Windows 10, 2. Turn off PC, 3. use a device and 4. Troubleshoot.

My questions are the following:

1. Can I do a clean re-install of a "regular" version of Windows (which I have done on a USB key) and use the same windows key of the System builder or it won't let me use it again?
2. OR should I keep the OEM version currently installed.

I would like to redo a clean install and get it over with, I feel like I'll end up with another problem and eventually will have to do a clean install again and then update everything. I'm just trying to be proactive.

Thanks for the feedbacks.

:)

 

Is it legal to install windows 10 home 64 bit with oem system builder license on brand new personal pc/laptop to personal use

To the authority microsoft party

Please make sure

That oem sisytem builder license

Legal to install for personal pc/laptop or personal laptop?

I bought a laptop without operating system

And then I bought a windows 10 64 bit with oem system builder license

Is it legal to install windows 10 64 bit with oem system builder license to my new laptop?

Cause i am not an system builder . I am just an civil servant in my country

 

How to buy a windows 10 Pro OEM license?

You can purchase from New Egg or Amazon.com:

Windows 10 Home - 64-bit - OEM - Newegg.com‎

Amazon.com: Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit System Builder OEM ...

Amazon.com: Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit System Builder OEM

Please keep in mind the limitations as mentioned in the previous reply:

OEM versions of Windows are identical to Full License Retail versions except for the following:

- OEM versions do not offer any free Microsoft direct support from Microsoft support personnel

- OEM licenses are tied to the very first computer you install and activate it on

- OEM versions allow all hardware upgrades except for an upgrade to a different model motherboard

- OEM versions cannot be used to directly upgrade from an older Windows operating system

 

Go to Settings => Updates and Security -> Activation tab. Does it say "Windows is activated with a digital license...."?

If it does, then you no longer need a product key at all. When the install asks for a product key, click the link for "I don't have a product key".

I would download the latest edition of Windows 10 from:
Download Windows 10

and do the clean install making sure you have the latest build available.

 

Thanks for the reply.

When I look in the settings, it only says "Windows is activated" and nothin about a digital license. Does that mean I need my Windows key to do the clean install?

In the latest edition of Windows 10 link, it's the Creator and Anniversary edition, which one is to choose regarding the differences?

When you mention the latest build, you mean Windows10?

 

You can reuse key as often as you like on same mobo. However, as you have a digital licence, you do not need to enter key. The link with MS account is only needed if it fails to activate due to a hardware change which does not apply here unless changing device or mobo (or in rare event something glitches).

 

You are key activated - an upgrade will get digital licence... (no need for MSA) and you can re-install same version w/o a key thereafter...

BTW: It's contrary to the EULA to be using System Builder on your own machine... it's meant for re-selling...

 

I had actually typed that at the end of my post #2 and deleted it .

@lappy,
Creator's Edition is the latest build of Windows 10.