Windows 10: What to do with unused Windows 8 OEM software/license?

Discus and support What to do with unused Windows 8 OEM software/license? in Windows 10 Updates and Activation to solve the problem; Some time ago I purchased an OEM version of Windows 8 intended for system building (SKU: M17-8100), but never got around to using it, and the package... Discussion in 'Windows 10 Updates and Activation' started by Bob Win10, Jul 20, 2016.

  1. Bob Win10 Win User

    What to do with unused Windows 8 OEM software/license?


    Some time ago I purchased an OEM version of Windows 8 intended for system building (SKU: M17-8100), but never got around to using it, and the package remains sealed. It is possible that I will use it before July 29, in which case the new installation would be eligible for a free upgrade, but perhaps not. If not, will I be able to exchange it for a corresponding Windows 10 product or obtain a refund?

    :)
     
    Bob Win10, Jul 20, 2016
    #1

  2. A few questions regarding WINDOWS LICENCE KEYS and Windows 10 reservations

    Do unused Windows licenses qualify for the free upgrade to Windows 10?

    No. In order to qualify for the free upgrade, Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 with Update 1 must be installed and running. Unused licenses do not qualify.

    How
    to reserve your free upgrade to Windows 10


    When I upgrade a preinstalled (OEM) or retail version of Windows 7 or Windows 8/8.1 license to Windows 10, does that license remain OEM or become a retail license?

    If you upgrade from a OEM or retail version of Windows 7 or Windows 8/8.1 to the free Windows 10 upgrade this summer, the license is consumed into it. Because the free upgrade is derived from the base qualifying license, Windows 10 will carry that licensing
    too.

    If you upgrade from a retail version, it carries the rights of a retail version.

    If you upgrade from a OEM version, it carries the rights of a OEM version.

    Full version (Retail):

    - Includes transfer rights to another computer.

    - Doesn't require a previous qualifying version of Windows.

    - Expensive

    Upgrade version (Retail):

    - Includes transfer rights to another computer.

    - require a previous qualifying version of Windows.

    - Expensive, but cheaper than full version

    OEM :

    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

    What happens if I change my motherboard?

    As it pertains to the OEM licenses this will invalidate the Windows 10 upgrade license because it will no longer have a previous base qualifying license which is required for the free upgrade. You will then have to purchase a full retail
    Windows 10 license. If the base qualifying license (Windows 7 or Windows 8.1) was a full retail version, then yes, you can transfer it.


    From the Windows 10 end user license agreement:

    b. Stand-alone software. If you acquired the software as stand-alone software (and also if you upgraded from software you acquired as stand-alone software), you may transfer the software to another device that belongs to you. You may also
    transfer the software to a device owned by someone else if (i) you are the first licensed user of the software and (ii) the new user agrees to the terms of this agreement. You may use the backup copy we allow you to make or the media that the software came
    on to transfer the software. Every time you transfer the software to a new device, you must remove the software from the prior device. You may not transfer the software to share licenses between devices.

    17. TRANSFER TO ANOTHER COMPUTER. a. Software Other than Windows Anytime Upgrade. You may transfer the software and install it on another computer for your use. That computer becomes the licensed computer. You may not do so to share this license between
    computers.
     
    Andre Da Costa, Jul 20, 2016
    #2
  3. Windows asks me to activate my account after upgrading my CPU and motherboard

    I'm assuming Windows 8 came pre-installed on your computer and is an OEM version. The Microsift OEM licence limits the software to the device on which it was originally installed. By changing the motherboard you have what MS consider a new computer, therefore
    your OEM operating system is not valid on it. Harsh, but it's their software and their rules.

    As for what you can do, if you want to continue with Windows you have to buy a new licence from Microsoft. It's probably not what you wanted to hear but you're not the first to be caught out like this, and you certainly won't be the last.
     
    DamianDavis, Jul 20, 2016
    #3
  4. Mystere Win User

    What to do with unused Windows 8 OEM software/license?

    If it's still sealed, then perhaps.. it will depend on the retailer you bought it from, and what their return policy is. They may have a time limit on refunds.
     
    Mystere, Jul 20, 2016
    #4
  5. Bob Win10 Win User
    I don't remember where it came from, nor do I have the receipt. Anyhow, suppose I assemble another system in a hurry, buying the parts locally to save time. Can I install Windows 10 directly from the boot disk I created, entering the serial numbers from the Windows 8 OEM disk to activate it? Or do I have to install Windows 8 first?
     
    Bob Win10, Jul 20, 2016
    #5
  6. NavyLCDR New Member
    You should be able to active a clean Windows 10 install by manually entering the Windows 8 product key.
     
    NavyLCDR, Apr 5, 2018
    #6
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What to do with unused Windows 8 OEM software/license?

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