Can I Upgrade a Motherboard with an OEM Windows 7 Serial Key?

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danielbsipe

danielbsipe

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Aug 14, 2012
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I bought a cheap asus computer 2 years ago. Since I have upgraded the CPU, the RAM, the GPU, the PSU and I even have it in a new case. I really want to buy a new motherboard and upgrade the CPU again. I am nervous because the version of Windows 7 is OEM. I have had people tell me that it doesn't matter, all i need is the serial key for verification when the machine recognizes the new hardware. I have also read online that you can't upgrade an oem motherboard without purchasing a new copy of windows. I am keeping my HDD oem boot drive. Do I need to buy a new copy of windows or can I just swap in a new motherboard (assuming everything is compatible.)

Thanks!
 
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Tradesman1
If you swap, will have to reactivate, on-line will have you call, a computer will ask if this is the only computer it's on, say Yes, it will either give you a new activation code or send you to a person - with MS about 9 times out of 10 it just gives you a new code...if you go to a person, tell them the original mobo is dead...generally they just give you a code.
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If you swap, will have to reactivate, on-line will have you call, a computer will ask if this is the only computer it's on, say Yes, it will either give you a new activation code or send you to a person - with MS about 9 times out of 10 it just gives you a new code...if you go to a person, tell them the original mobo is dead...generally they just give you a code.
 
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Solution


Just swap it and do a clean install. Once that is done go and activate it, It will be rejected and you'll have to call. follow the instructions from the person above me and you will be golden.:)
 
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Your copy of Windows is locked to the PC on which you purchased it. You cannot transfer that license to another PC.
You can upgrade any components or peripherals on your PC and keep your license intact. You can replace the motherboard with an identical model or an equivalent model from the OEM if it fails. However, if you personally replace or upgrade the motherboard, your OEM Windows license is null and void.
 
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In Win7 generally no need to do clean install, Win will detect the new mobo and hardware and load default drivers, then update all drivers from CD/DBD that comes with mobo or better yet the mobo site, and you have your system just as it was, good idea to run the Registry Cleaner of your choice to get rid of old junk. Have even done this from AMD to Intel rigs an Intel to AMD with good success
 
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just to add a little info to what has already been said:

Older OEM codes are tied to the motherboard. In order for an OEM code to be used again you need to call Microsoft. IF they deem it valid they will theorize the code. This holds true for Win XP, Win Vista and Win 7. Windows 8 is slightly different. The OEM on Win 8 is not tied to the motherboard but still needs a call to Microsoft to transfer from one PC to the other.
 
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So I got an AS Rock 970 Extreme 3. Everything went without a hitch. I called Microsoft to authenticate and they gave me a new OEM key for free, like all of you said. Thanks again guys!
 
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hi, euhmmm... thi stil works?
 
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oke, i am taking the risk, if it won't can I just buy windows 7 and reinstal the free upgrade windows 10? is that possible?
 
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hi i have a computer with windows 7 oem and i changed the motherboard and now its saying i need to reactivate...what will happen if i put the other motherboard back in? thanks
 
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