Windows 10: Use paid install disk on another machine with the other machine's key

Have a crashed Win10 machine. Tried to "reset" it with a downloaded iso, but this didn't work--maybe the iso was NG.
Anyway, now it won't boot at all. This machine was upgraded from Win 8.1 and I have no paid install disk for it.
However, I do know the correct Windows key for the system that crashed. Can I use a paid install disk that I installed on another system, and put in the key code for the crashed system in order to get it back up and running?

Thanx for all assistance--doug

:)

 

Can I use an OEM key and change major hardwares in my pc and stay activated?

My informal understanding of the rules is that

• An OEM key is tied to the machine where it was first installed.
• That machines is basically defined by the motherboard.

Therefore replacing the motherboard effectively creates a "new machine" and would invalidate the licence.

On the other hand,

• replacing the hard disk or adding another drive,
• adding memory
• replacing the video card

would not.

 

How many installs of Win 10 on a single activation code?

A (Paid) Windows 10 key (Home or Pro) will allow only 1 install at a time, however you can move that key to another PC/Virtual machine. it does however require a call to Microsoft for them to activate the key.

 

You can download windows 10 setup media > https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/soft...load/techbench
When asked for product key - just skip that page..

 

You can also download Windows 8.1 install media:
Create installation media for Windows 8.1 - Windows Help

 

OP - above link downloads iso that you need to transfer contents to usb drive or dvd using rufus or diskpart commands.

If you use this link, it will create the usb flash drive automatically if you select option.

Windows 10 ISO