Windows 10: Transfer Windows 10 Home OEM license from my home-built PC to a new PC

I'm trying to get a straight answer on transferring Windows that will hopefully also help a lot of people that build their own PCs. I'll try to be as detailed so that others can have an idea of common problems they will likely encounter.


I built my first PC in 2011 using a Windows 7 Home OEM disk I purchased from a major e-retailer. For various hardware issue reasons, I had to change my Intel P67 motherboard to a Z68 to a Z77, without changing any other part of the computer or system files, so I know the OS has been moved around. I upgraded to Windows 10 Home in 2015 for free when it came out, still on the same Intel Z77 motherboard.


I am building a completely new PC now and am wondering if I can use the OS product key from my old PC, considering that it is a Windows 7 Home OEM upgraded to a Windows 10 Home that was used on a very old motherboard, or if I just need to buy a new OS. Obviously I would deactivate the old PC as necessary.


Albert

:)

 

Transferring OEM licenses between PC's

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

That means, the computer with the OEM license has not transfer rights.

Resources:

How to Transfer your Windows 10 License to a New Computer

 

transfer windows 10 to new pc?

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

If its a retail license, learn how to reactivate:

• Activate Your Windows 10 License via Microsoft Chat Support

 

Transfer digital license from old PC to New one.

You would have to first ensure the Digital License is linked to your Microsoft Account. See instructions how to do that. You can then use the Troubleshooter on the new computer after installing Windows 10 to restore the license.

• Use a Digital
  License to Manage and Activate Windows 10 Anniversary Update

Please note, if your license was upgraded from a OEM preinstalled Windows 7 or Windows 7 license, it is not transferable.

See:

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