Windows 10: Upgraded my PC, new motherboard, now need a activation code which I've lost (Bought Windows...

What can I do about this issue? I've tried calling support and I get stuck on where it asks me for the first part of my activation key and no option to talk to an operator.


So backstory:

- bought and built a new PC with windows 8.1 bought separate around 5 years ago

- upgraded to windows 10 when the free upgrades to 10 first came out

- upgraded my computer just recently after some hardware failures (CPU and motherboard)

- Now windows asks me to activate it


I've never done the linking of your Microsoft account to your activation key, to my regret, and the windows 8.1 original packaging is long gone.

Is there any hope for me to get my activation key back? Or is the only way is to buy a new one which I can't really afford atm? (full time uni student)

:)

 

windows 10 activation after upgrading motherboard

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

 

Windows 10 not activated after new motherboard

Unfortunately, a new motherboard is treated as a new PC. Options are sort of limited. Buying a new W10 license key will solve the problem.

Mel

 

Windows 7 to Windows 10 Upgrade after buying new motherboard de-activated windows

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 using your product key:

• Activate Your Windows 10 License via Microsoft Chat Support