Hardware changed, need help with activation

Hi, JamaroMooibroek

My name is Mays and I am an Independent Consultant. I would love to help you today.

Depending on the type of Windows 10 license you have installed, you might be able to transfer it to a new computer if needed. Over the years, Microsoft has distributed its desktop operating system through different market channels. New computers will often come preinstalled with an OEM license. There are many other channels Microsoft distributes Windows in, these include Retail, Volume License, Academic, and subgroups such as Upgrade licenses. Check these links, I hope it helps.

https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/for...

https://www.windowscentral.com/how-re-activate-...

https://www.groovypost.com/howto/transfer-windo...

Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

Let me know if the information has been useful to solve your Problem.

Hi Jamaro

My name is Andre Da Costa; an Independent Consultant, Windows Insider MVP and Windows & Devices for IT MVP. I'm here to help you with your problem.

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:
http://www.groovypost.com/howto/transfer-window...

If its a retail license, learn how to reactivate:
http://www.groovypost.com/howto/activate-window...

You could try chatting with support agent and explain the situation in detail and they might be able to activate it. We were able to confirm with Microsoft under some circumstances, OEM licenses can be reactivated even under the free upgrade offer. Its not guaranteed every support agent will do it though, but you can try your luck.

Microsoft's view is, as long as you are not abusing the license, you should get a pass.

Activate Your Windows 10 License via Microsoft Chat Support
Use the following link to directly reach a live agent who can assist you:

https://partner.support.services.microsoft.com/...

You have a retail license, so all you need to do is contact chat support and explain the issue and they will reactivate it for you:

https://partner.support.services.microsoft.com/...

You can also call support:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/13948/...

Hi Jamaro
I am Sumit, an Independent Advisor and a 2-Year Windows Insider MVP here to help.

Activation depends on what type of license you have of Windows 7/8/10.

If Windows 7/8/10 came preinstalled with the computer, that is called an OEM license. For an OEM license, the license dies as soon as Motherboard dies. So essentially it is non-transferable. If that is the case you need to get a new license.

However, this is not same for retail licenses i.e. you purchased the license through Microsoft store. That does carry transfer rights. If that is the case, please see the below steps:

Run the activation troubleshooter on the new device using the below steps:
Go to Settings>Update and security>Activation and run the troubleshooter. and select I recently changed hardware on this device.

(Please note that Activation troubleshooter requires you to have digital license linked to Microsoft Account.)

If the troubleshooter hasn't helped, you can get in touch of an agent using the link below who can help you to get your copy activated:
https://partner.support.services.microsoft.com/...

Please let us know if you need any assistance.

Hi Jamaro,

Click your Start Button, type cmd then right click Command Prompt and choose 'Run as Administrator'

Run or paste this command and hit Enter:

slmgr.vbs /dlv

Please post a screenshot of the resulting dialog . . .

Here it is