Question My Windows 10 (OEM) is 'activated with a digital licence linked to your Microsoft account' -- will I be able to install it on a new computer?

[Kevat]

Hey,

This topic is really confusing me. My license is OEM not retail, however I've already linked my license to my Microsoft account. When I get my new (desktop) computer, will I be able to install Windows 10 on it using my OEM product key (it's on a sticker, I don't have a box), and will it go through activation?

Because the dude at the shop said it wouldn't and that I have to buy a new Windows 10 key.

Please help.

Thanks!

 

[Deleted member 14196]

if it's OEM I think it's tied to that one machine it was on. I could be wrong. Anyway, you can use Windows 10 as long as you like inactivated and fully functional. just can't change wallpaper and silly stuff like that. At least until you can afford a license.

 

[britechguy]

If you are buying a new PC, unless you're building it or getting a bare bones box, it will already have Windows 10 on it.

There are ways to move Windows 10 licenses, but in this situation why would you need to do so?

 

[Kevat]

If you are buying a new PC, unless you're building it or getting a bare bones box, it will already have Windows 10 on it.

There are ways to move Windows 10 licenses, but in this situation why would you need to do so?

Well I'd hate to pay for a key a second time. :/

 

[britechguy]

Again, unless you're building a machine and it comes with no OS installed, or buying a custom built machine that has no OS installed, Windows 10 is going to come with your PC.

Unless that was what you did the first time, you should not have needed to buy a license key, either. If a machine comes with OEM Windows 10 it is already legally licensed and all one needs to do, if one so chooses, is to link that machine and the Windows installation on it to one's Microsoft account. That's entirely optional, as many people continue to use Windows 10 with only local accounts.