Software: Windows 10 | Last modified on 2018-06-18
If you replaced the motherboard, only a RETAIL product key will work with the steps that are noted below.
A guide on how to transfer your free Windows 10 upgrade license after replacing hardware or purchasing a new computer.
[Solution 1] Attach & transfer the digital license
- If you upgrade from an OEM version, it carries the rights of an OEM version.
If you upgrade from a RETAIL version, it carries the rights of a RETAIL version. - Your Windows 10 upgrade license is tied to your Microsoft account after the anniversary update (build 1607).
Sign-in with your Microsoft account in Windows 10 before replacing hardware.
- Open the Settings app and click Accounts.
- If you see your email address noted, it means you're already signed in with a Microsoft account and you can continue to the next step.
- If you do not see your email address, click Sign in with a Microsoft account instead and follow the steps indicated in the window.
- Open the Settings app and click Update & Security.
- Click Activation and check if it states 'Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.'
- If you see the above text, it means that you can now safely replace the hardware in the computer.
- If you don't see the above text, click Add an account under Add a Microsoft account and follow the steps.
- After you've replaced the hardware, restart or reinstall Windows 10 depending on what parts you've replaced.
- Sign back into Windows and a notification will appear at the right-bottom side of the screen, stating that Windows requires activation.
- Open the Settings app and click Update & Security.
- Click Activation and select Troubleshoot.
- Let the troubleshooter finish the process and a new option will appear: 'I changed hardware on this device recently.'
- Follow the steps, sign-in with your Microsoft account and Windows will activate with the digital license.