Do i need to download Windows 10?

[xtylerockx]

I am planning on upgrading my CPU to a AMD - Ryzen 5 1500X 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor. I heard its typically better to replace the motherboard when you plan to upgrade your CPU. I also heard from a friend that Windows 10 can be tied to the Motherboard. So would i need to download Windows 10 to my computer if i plan to use my old HDD still? Or do i need to install windows 10 again when replacing the motherboard/CPU?

 

[Insomniac Jack]

Well given Ryzen requires an AM4 socket you will have to replace the motherboard as it won't fit in any of the older sockets. You'll also need to upgrade to DDR4 RAM as the new platform does not accept the older DDR3 RAM. Yes, Windows is tied to hardware and it's best to do a clean install of Windows when upgrading your hardware as Windows will contain all of the old hardware drivers and could cause issues on the new platform. You can create an installation USB here https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10 and use your pre existing activation key.

 

[Insomniac Jack]

I forgot to mention that if you have any questions on part compatibility or even just wanting to know if anything can be improved post your build here on the forum and there's plenty of us that can offer advice and suggestions.

 

[g-unit1111]

I am planning on upgrading my CPU to a AMD - Ryzen 5 1500X 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor. I heard its typically better to replace the motherboard when you plan to upgrade your CPU. I also heard from a friend that Windows 10 can be tied to the Motherboard. So would i need to download Windows 10 to my computer if i plan to use my old HDD still? Or do i need to install windows 10 again when replacing the motherboard/CPU?

That's half true - if you're upgrading from say an AM3 to an AM4, then absolutely you will need a new motherboard. But if you're upgrading, say an AM3 to an AM3, or a 6700K to a 7700K, then no you will not need a new motherboard.

You can reuse your old HDD as many times as you want. Windows 10 does not need to require a new installation, but you will need to delete your old drivers and install the new ones for the new motherboard. But you will also need to reactivate Windows, and that can be a gigantic pain dealing with Microsoft when that happens.

 

[Scottray]

Here's some more info to link your windows 10 activation to your Microsoft account and do a HW change: http://www.windowscentral.com/how-re-activate-windows-10-after-hardware-change