Do I have to re-install windows when upgrading my motherboard?

[TechGuy45]

So, I'm upgrading my motherboard from a Gigabyte 78LMT-s2 to a Gigabyte 970a-d3p. I've seen people say that if the mobos are made by the same company that you do not have to reinstall windows 7. Is this true? I really don't want to reinstall windows.

 

[wolverine96]

Here's some information that may help you:
Changing motherboard without reinstalling windows?

Basically, like the first guy in that thread said, back it up, try it out, and see what happens.

 

[cilliers]

This is purely a licensing issue with Microsoft.

Apparently, the Microsoft OEM license agreement says:

“An upgrade of the motherboard is considered to result in a “new personal computer” to which Microsoft® OEM operating system software cannot be transferred from another computer. If the motherboard is upgraded or replaced for reasons other than a defect, then a new computer has been created and the license of new operating system software is required.”

if you have your own upgrade or full retail version of windows then do a new install after you've installed the motherboard.

If you decide to go ahead with this motherboard replacement without re-installing windows, please remove all chipset drivers, storage drivers, sound drivers, display drivers BEFORE changing the motherboards.
I've done this previously: Used my laptop HDD in a PC and it worked perfectly. Was with windows 8 though...

 

[USAFRet]

Not purely licensing. Quite often, it simply does not boot. Long before any licensing issues.

You can try it. But be prepared if it does not work.