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New motherboard/processor/RAM, new license?

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Mikaeru3d03 Posted messages 6 Status Member -  
Mikaeru3d03 Posted messages 6 Status Member -

Hello. Thank you in advance for your responses.

Here are the details:

Tomorrow or the day after, I will proceed with a hardware update of my PC, by changing the motherboard, the processor, and the RAM.

Currently, I have:

  •     MSI Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon AC motherboard
  •     Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-9700K processor
  •     32GB Corsair DDR4 Vengeance RAM
  •     MSI RTX 4060ti Gaming X graphics card Windows 11 Home (via free upgrade from Windows 10) - Reinstallation on 10/19/2024
  •     Windows license activated and linked to my Microsoft account
  •     OS on Samsung SSD 850 Pro 512Gb hard drive

In case, I retrieved the license key via ShowKeyPlus, which indicates:
OEM key not present in firmware

This is not a commercial PC, but a PC that I assembled myself.
For Windows, it is a physical Windows 10 license, therefore a box containing a USB key, with bootable Windows 10, accompanied by its activation key, that I purchased from a store.
My Microsoft account clearly indicates that my Windows license is an active digital license, and well linked to my account.

I will change the configuration to:

  •     MSI Z890 MAG Tomahawk Wifi motherboard
  •     Intel(R) Core Ultra 7 265KF processor
  •     32GB Corsair DDR5 Vengeance RAM
  •     The graphics card will not change.
  •     The hard drive will not change either.

Now I come to the question in the title:
If I change the motherboard/processor/RAM, will Windows require a new license?

I have already asked this question here and there on social networks, and at Microsoft technical support. And for all the responses, I have received mixed answers.
50/50... 50% said "No, there is no need for a new license"... and 50% said "Yes, you will need a new license".
Even at Microsoft, the moderators who intervened do not agree.

So, I would like to have your opinions.

Where the majority agrees is that I should reinstall Windows 11.
Something I have planned by creating a USB key for reinstalling Windows 11.

7 answers

  1. Winux
     

    Hello,

    The license is tied to the motherboard, so yes, unless it's a retail version, you can't transfer the license if it's an OEM.

    Also, on sites like Cdiscount and Rakuten, you'll find licenses for a few cents.

    It was silly to buy the license with the included USB stick because it's never up to date and unless you get an official one that's very expensive, you don't know what it might contain either, so you might as well make your own USB stick.

    1
  2. Winux
     

    It's better to reinstall, yes, but know that in some cases, it's not impossible to run the operating system from another PC on a new one, but this can create conflicts and a re-evaluation of new drivers at Windows startup, and it's up to you to reconfigure all the drivers knowing that there might be leftover remnants; it's a bit of a special operation, so it's not very advisable.

    1
  3. flo88 Posted messages 28533 Registration date   Status Contributor Last intervention   Ambassador 5 186
     

    Hello

    I have a personal PC that runs on an original Windows 8 license, which has had 3 hardware changes (motherboard, CPU, RAM), and it has successfully transitioned to Windows 10 and then Windows 11 without any issues, without a new license (it's an OEM) but with reactivation after each motherboard change.

    So yes, it is possible; it's actually charged as a flat fee by professionals ranging from €70 to €100 excluding parts. It does require some preparation and you need to stay within the same processor technology, Intel to Intel or AMD to AMD; if you deviate from this rule, it gets more complicated.

    1
    1. Winux
       

      Hello Flo,

      I'm interested.

      To reactivate the license, did you call Microsoft's customer service like when you reactivate Microsoft Office Pro after a reformat or a change of PC?

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      1. flo88 Posted messages 28533 Registration date   Status Contributor Last intervention   5 186 > Winux
         

        Reactivation via the internet has worked every time; if we have to do it by phone, it's riskier. If we don't change the equipment too often (about once every 18 months), it works every time.

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      2. flo88 Posted messages 28533 Registration date   Status Contributor Last intervention   5 186 > flo88 Posted messages 28533 Registration date   Status Contributor Last intervention  
         

        When you have several gaming platforms installed with dozens or even hundreds of gigabytes of games, plus the software, changing the hardware without reinstalling anything is really a considerable time saver.

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      3. Winux > flo88 Posted messages 28533 Registration date   Status Contributor Last intervention  
         

        Alright,

        But I had already tried once and it didn't work for some reason, however, it's been a long time, I don't remember the exact procedure I followed.

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      4. flo88 Posted messages 28533 Registration date   Status Contributor Last intervention   5 186 > Winux
         

        I didn't have time to give the details earlier and I thought I had a tutorial at hand, but I couldn't find it... I only have an old discussion: https://forums.commentcamarche.net/forum/affich-23585165-carte-mere-pour-955-be#p23585354

        So, I'll describe the procedure quickly:

        1. First, you must stick to Intel->Intel or AMD->AMD; switching from Intel to AMD or vice versa is always a headache, so it's complicated to make a tutorial since it's total improvisation.
        2. I'm describing the procedure for changing the motherboard and CPU (possibly with RAM) while keeping the Windows version from N-1, thus using the disk from the old PC.

        ____________________________________________________________________________

        1. First of all: Backup your data. Ideally, create an image of C: (if it’s not too overloaded) on an external drive; this allows you to revert to the previous configuration safely.
        2. Download the drivers for the new motherboard.
        3. Just before the change procedure:
        4. Disconnect from the internet: Uninstall all drivers from the N-1 motherboard, namely the chipset, sound card and especially, the network card. Mainly that.
        5. Shut down the PC and do not restart it (even if there’s a prompt during the uninstallation)
        6. Make the hardware change.
        7. Start up, try, (pray...), connect to the internet as soon as Windows reinstalls a basic driver for the network card.
        8. Windows will take a bit of time to sort everything out.
        9. Install the new drivers previously downloaded while checking the device manager for any driver errors; the goal at this stage is to eliminate any potential errors in the manager.
        10. Restart as many times as necessary to complete the driver installations.
        11. The activation of the Windows license will have reset due to the motherboard change, this is normal, just go to "activation settings" (start menu, settings, system, activation) and reactivate via the internet. If that doesn't work, try by phone. And if it really doesn’t want to work, you need to buy a license for 2 cents on Cdiscount or elsewhere: WINDOWS 11 FAMILY - Downloadable - Quick Send to download - Cdiscount, being careful not to get the wrong version (W10 or W11, Home or Pro)

        There you go, I don't think I forgot much; in broad terms, that's it. I'm setting aside the subtleties of BIOS versions (UEFI, CSM, etc.) on the new hardware that can complicate matters if not taken into account beforehand, also the BIOS versions depending on the CPU. This is where a professional's expertise is most beneficial.

        2
  4. Mikaeru3d03 Posted messages 6 Status Member
     

    First of all, thank you all for your responses.

    Here’s a quick update:

    1. Calling a professional is a no: I had a bad experience with a "so-called" professional who charged me 200 euros for a previous PC, plus a license.
    The problem is that after not even 6 months, the license was no longer valid because it had been used too many times. In short: He sold me a license that he resells for all his services.
    As a result, I now prefer to do it myself.

    2. I contacted MSI support: They reassured me that I shouldn't have to purchase a license again. They explained the steps to follow.
    If I follow their instructions, I shouldn't have to reinstall Windows 11, according to them.
    To be continued tomorrow after the assembly...

    3. No, it’s not an OEM license!
    The catch is the license for Windows 10.
    And since the migration to Windows 11, the last reset of the PC forced me to connect to my Microsoft account for Windows activation to take place.
    The Windows 10 license key (on paper) is no longer accepted for activating Windows 11.
    But tomorrow will be different since there’s hardware change.
    I still followed a tutorial to retrieve the license key of my current Windows 11.
    I printed it out, I have a copy on paper.

    Now, if I understood correctly from Microsoft support, my license is now a digital license that can only be activated with my Microsoft account and an internet connection.
    So if I reinstall Windows 11, I must activate it online.
    To be continued tomorrow after assembly.

    4. The "C:" drive only includes the OS (and a few various free applications) but no games.
    The large applications (in GB), games, and other "paid" applications are installed on other hard drives. There are 5 in total counting "C:".
    The folders "Images", "Documents", "Downloads", "Music" are on the other drives (E, F, G, H). I don't need to back them up; I just have to specify their path after reinstallation (if there is a reinstallation).

    And yes! I will not plug in all the drives during the first start.
    Only the OS drive, the SSD, will be connected.
    Once Windows 11 is fully operational, I will install the other drives.
    > Then there will be the step of installing a PCIe to 2x SATA adapter since motherboards nowadays only have 4x SATA, and I need 6.

    5. I created a USB "ISO of Windows 11": I prepared it in case of need. It saves time.

    6. A USB stick to facilitate the installation of the new motherboard: With the MSI Tomahawk, I need to have a USB stick for the installation and first boot of the motherboard. It’s in the MSI support responses that the installation should be easier.
    We'll see tomorrow.

    I have about ten steps to follow before even deciding whether to reinstall Windows 11 or not.

    In short, I’m crossing my fingers not to encounter any other issues besides Windows 11...
    Between the new processor, the RAM, the PCIe SATA adapter, the CPU cooler mounting adapter, the graphics card, etc... there are a lot of things that could complicate my task...

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  6. Mikaeru3d03 Posted messages 6 Status Member
     

    I'm giving you feedback:

    At the end of the assembly, at the moment of the first start with the new configuration, the power supply went "pop" and stopped working for no apparent reason.
    More details: It still works but does not deliver the voltage or power it is supposed to provide.

    The power supply in question:

    Brand: Be Quiet
    Model: Dark Power Pro - Platinum 80 Plus
    Power: 1000W
    Modular: Yes, Semi-modular
    Age: 5 years

    I have therefore reassembled my old configuration to test the new power supply:

    Brand: MSI
    Model: MAG A1250W PCIE5 - Gold 80 Plus
    Power: 1250W

    It is with my old configuration and the new power supply that I am responding to you.

    I will begin in the next few minutes to disassemble and assemble the new configuration.

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  7. Mikaeru3d03 Posted messages 6 Status Member
     

    Here we go... I finally have the answer regarding this topic:
    If new motherboard, new processor, new RAM, do you need a new license?

    The answer is: YES!

    As I'm replying, I have finished assembling my new setup... and after a few scares (the motherboard refused to start/boot and displayed an error code)... everything went well.

    Note: I didn't have to reinstall Windows 11. The software from MSI wiped all the old files, drivers, and unnecessary applications.

    I suspect my old power supply was not compatible with the latest motherboards.

    Anyway, back to the subject... once the drivers were installed, Windows 11 was no longer activated.
    All my attempts to register my license key have ended in failure.
    I get the message: "Unable to contact Microsoft servers for activation..."

    And this gives me no choice, Microsoft account required, I have to proceed online.
    Except the servers are unreachable.
    I was able to access my Microsoft account, but while the PC is showing up, its license is not activated.

    As I post this message, I am forced to go back to the store and buy a new license.

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    1. flo88 Posted messages 28533 Registration date   Status Contributor Last intervention   5 186
       

      I correct for future references.

      If the procedure I explained in "8" is followed, there is no need to purchase a license. I noticed in message "9" that it was not followed correctly. Another point, the warning regarding the brand of the platforms is essential in the process.

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      1. Mikaeru3d03 Posted messages 6 Status Member > flo88 Posted messages 28533 Registration date   Status Contributor Last intervention  
         

        I followed the procedure well.
        Apart from 2 or 3 details in the procedure that did not go exactly as indicated.

        At the step of installing the RAM modules, I struggled to get them into place.
        The locking mechanism wouldn't engage and the modules kept popping out... hence the error message "E0" on the motherboard indicating an issue with the RAM.
        I had to try 6 times before finally succeeding.

        At step 7, it connected via WiFi and asked me for my WiFi key, despite the Ethernet cable being plugged into the box. I entered the WiFi key, it connected, and then the installation of drivers continued.

        At step 8, I let Windows process for a while.
        I even let it run for more than 2 hours.
        I stepped out for a moment, and before I left, it rebooted more than 5 times.

        As proof that everything went well, here are 2 screenshots:
        1. System information: https://postimg.cc/1VBfDLhQ

        2. Device managers: https://postimg.cc/fVGz1HBh

        As you can see, there were no error messages in the Device Manager.

        At one point, it asked me to sign in to my Microsoft account.
        Not recognizing the hardware, it prompted me to identify myself via two-step verification, I chose SMS for the second step.
        Then the installation continued.
        After Windows finished processing, MSI Center opened, and it was at that moment that it asked me to intervene on certain points of the installation.

        At steps 9 and 10, again, it rebooted multiple times upon MSI Center's request.
        It was at that precise moment that it installed the Ethernet network drivers, and I continued the installation using the Ethernet cable.

        At step 11, this is where it diverged from the procedure.
        Windows did ask me if there was a hardware change. It processed for a bit, then the message ""Unable to find Microsoft servers for activation..."".
        And despite repeated attempts, the same message kept occurring in a loop.
        At no point did it offer me a phone activation.
        With each new attempt, Windows tried to activate via the internet.

        Without Windows activation, all the customization "vanished" with a black wallpaper instead.

        I activated it by purchasing a new license; I didn't look any further, late last night.

        As for the RAM, they were capped at 4800MHz, instead of 6400MHz.
        I entered the BIOS and activated the XMP1 profile as indicated, and I can now enjoy the 6400MHz (as you can see in the screenshot).

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  8. fabul Posted messages 42285 Registration date   Status Moderator Last intervention   6 092
     

    Hello,

    Have you tried activating by phone/SMS?

    If it’s a legitimate license key, it should work.

    Otherwise, you can buy it here using PayPal

    https://deals.sharewareonsale.com/sales/microsoft-windows-11-pro-6

    A handling fee of about $2 may apply, in addition to local sales tax.

    There are cheaper options on Cdiscount, but I have never bought from there.

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    1. Mikaeru3d03 Posted messages 6 Status Member
       

      Thank you for the offer.

      To be completely honest: I have a credit of €49.99 at g2a.com.

      And they are actually offering this:
      https://www.g2a.com/fr/microsoft-windows-11-home-pc-microsoft-key-global-i10000271161001?uuid=986c2b18-2db6-4a3e-936c-6844a51ca79e

      €13.77 for a Windows 7 Home license, which will be deducted from my credit with them.
      In the end, I won't have to pay anything... and I'll still have some credit left, what more could I ask for.

      But thanks again for the offer.

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