Can motherboards and processors be changed without a new licence of Win 8.1

TheJackle

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I have an Amd Athlon II X4 760k, and a MSI A78M-E35. I wish to upgrade to an AMD FX-8350 and a Gigabyte 970A-DS3P. Will this need a new activation code for Windows 8.1. FYI I have the disk I used to install Windows inthe first place
 
Solution


That is not an absolute. Sometimes that works, and sometimes it doesn't.
There is also the licensing issue. Win 7 OEM...you'd need a new license. Win 8/8.1, you don't.

TheJackle

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Thanks, that is very helpful. Other forums had very mixed answers. Thanks very much
 

SgtStiffler

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No, because the OS is stored on your HDD. I've changed my motherboard and processor before without reinstalling Windows. Just make sure you have the HDD selected first in the boot menu when you get your new motherboard.
 

USAFRet

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That is not an absolute. Sometimes that works, and sometimes it doesn't.
There is also the licensing issue. Win 7 OEM...you'd need a new license. Win 8/8.1, you don't.
 
Solution

SgtStiffler

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He has 8.1, though. There's always a way around that issue. ;)
 

SgtStiffler

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That won't make a difference. Just make sure the one with Windows is selected when you boot with your new motherboard.