Windows 10: Transferring an old product key to a new system

I could use some clarification on how product keys work, it's been a long time since I had to think about windows installations.

I've been using the same copy of windows for a long time, I've upgraded it from windows 7 to windows 10, but have had the same product key for a long time.


The issue is that I got this product key before I had a Microsoft account, and before product keys were required to be associated to a Microsoft account. Now that I've bought a new system, I'd prefer to transfer this copy of windows over, but I can't use my product key again on the new system. Is there a way to transfer it over, despite the product key not being associated to a Microsoft account, or am I out of luck and need to buy a new copy of windows?


Many thanks!

:)

 

Can I Transfer an OEM Product Key to New PC?


I built a new PC and want to install windows 8.1. For this I need to buy a product key. I was told that OEM product keys are "married" to the motherboard for life.

But lets say I install win 8.1 and use an OEM product key yo activate it. And lets say in the future I get rid of the old motherboard and install a new motherboard. Will I be able to transfer the product key to the new motherboard? Or would I need a retail product key to transfer the key to a new PC or motherboard?

 

Forgot to deactivate old computer's product key before transferring the product key to another computer

The old device is not in use by anybody and unfortunately the edu product key is still installed on it, and the device is not with me.

Is there any way that can remotely transfer the product key to my new computer without accessing the old computer?

 

Activate new device with old device' product key

No, you can't do what you are suggesting, because the Windows 10 Pro license you mentioned is pre-loaded on the old machine. OEM licenses as they are called are not transferable. Only if the Windows 10 Pro was a retail store bought license would be able
to do that. Otherwise, you have to purchase an entirely new full version license for the Windows 10 Home computer you now have.

Open Start > Settings > Update & security > Activation > Go to Store

Click the $99 button the make your purchase the follow the on screen instructions.

Learn more about transferring licenses:

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