If I Change Hard Drives Do I Need to Purchase Windows Again
Do I need a new windows 10 while buying a new hard drive
- Thread starter Nytro776
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- #1
- Jun 17, 2015
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The key is not stored in the BIOS chip. It is just the s/n from the chip that is coded to your account, which is why logging into your microsoft account should unlock and activate your new copy of Windows 10.
- Apr 19, 2006
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However, you will need to use a different PC to download Microsoft's Windows 10 installation media tool; the link is below. You have two basic options; created a bootable USB drive or download the ISO image of Windows 10 and then burn it onto a blank DVD. Therefore, you need to purchase a USB thumb drive (not expensive), or the PC you are using to download needs to have a DVD burner... and you need to buy a blank DVD.
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10
- Jun 17, 2015
- 509
- 1
- 5,360
- 128
- #3
The key is not stored in the BIOS chip. It is just the s/n from the chip that is coded to your account, which is why logging into your microsoft account should unlock and activate your new copy of Windows 10.
- Apr 19, 2006
- 27,981
- 3
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- 4,084
- Jun 17, 2015
- 509
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- #5
The key is not stored in the BIOS chip. It is just the s/n from the chip that is coded to your account, which is why logging into your microsoft account should unlock and activate your new copy of Windows 10.
The Windows 8 / Windows 10 product key is stored in the BIOS.
https://www.nextofwindows.com/how-to-retrieve-windows-8-oem-product-key-from-bios
Had this discussion on another thread here. I thought that also until I was shown a link on Microsoft's page about it. And it isn't actually stored in the BIOS chip. The s/n is on the BIOS chip and that is tied to your account.
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_10-other_settings/windows-10-key-and-bios-keys-different/33192482-10d8-48c8-906c-24044706b9a2
And this link here also seems to suggest your key is stored on their server now also.
http://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-tweaks-activation-rules-for-the-windows-10-anniversary-update/
- Mar 16, 2013
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- #6
Install, and skip by the 'enter the license key' part.
Your system details are stored at homebase, and it will activate itself.
For new hardware that you own...new motherboard...read and do this before changing parts:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/20530/windows-10-reactivating-after-hardware-change
http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/id-3164428/windows-build-1607-activation.html
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Source: https://forums.tomshardware.com/threads/do-i-need-a-new-windows-10-while-buying-a-new-hard-drive.3084862/#:~:text=If%20your%20computer%20only%20has,Windows%2010%20for%20your%20PC.
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