Selling computers: Transferring Windows 10 License to new owner

I have a few Windows 7 era laptops (ThinkPad T420) that I plan on upgrading to Windows 10 and selling them. My current understanding is that once upgraded, the new Windows 10 key will be tied to my Windows account. Once I sell the device I want to be able to transfer the windows license to them.

Is there a way to do that?

On this topic, I'd like to be able to setup a computer, install the operating system, drivers etc, then erase account information so that when they start the computer it gives them the prompt to enter their user name etc (more or less how Dell, HP etc do when you buy a new PC from them). Is there an easy way to do this?

You could setup a dummy account called User and let the potential owner know they should delete it after:

I just installed or reinstalled a preview build of Windows 10 and I want to upgrade to the final release, but it will not activate.

Microsoft has suspended Preview Builds and also deactivated their product keys at this time in preparation for the RTM release on July 29th. This means so you won't be able to download, install or activate builds 10162 and 10166 or earlier builds in order to qualify for the final release.

Your best option is to reinstall a valid license you have for either Windows 7, Windows 8.0 or Windows 8.1, make sure it is actvated, then upgrade from that to Windows 10 on July 29th or later.

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.

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Andre
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groovypost.com

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That doesn't quite address my question though,

If I understand the current policy correctly, I can install the OEM Windows 7 license on the laptop now using the license on the bottom of the laptop. Upgrade to Windows 10 taking advantage of the free upgrade. In doing so, the Windows 10 license will be tied to the machine/my Microsoft Account. This allows me to re-install Windows 10 whenever I need to (failed HD, virus etc) and the machine will automatically activate once I log in with my Microsoft Account.

Does this mean when I sell this machine, I will need to give them my Microsoft Account as well? Otherwise, if anything goes wrong, they won't be able to reactivate Windows.

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No, you don't have to give them your account. This can be skipped with new installation once the motherboard is activated for Windows 10, if I understood everything well.

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Thanks, so you're saying once upgraded the Windows 10 license is tied to the motherboard and not to a Microsoft Account that was used to qualify for the upgrade?

That would make things easier. I was under the impression it was tied to motherboard and Microsoft Account.

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Just for confirm for anyone else who happen to have the same question.

I upgraded one of my laptops (Thinkpad x201) and the key is indeed tied to the motherboard and is completely independent of your Microsoft Account.

When you do a fresh install, just leave the key blank. Once the computer connects to the internet, the key will be automatically applied and activated on your computer.

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I have already sold a lap top with upgraded Windows 10 and I thought I had deleted everything period now week later my Hotmail account has his name and I can't fix it. I have deleted the laptop off of my devices in my Microsoft account I have changed my password, and I have updated edited my name, but my Hotmail account still shows  the new lap top owner's! Please help!

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Last updated December 17, 2024 Views 35,482 Applies to: