New MOBO and CPU will I need to buy a new windows key?

[manky2]

Hello,
I am soon purchasing an ASUS maximus Hero VII and an i5 4690k. I will be using the same Hard drive after the installation. Will I need to install windows again once I fit my new MOBO and CPU?

 

[Suztera]

Better to reinstall windows.
You will need a new window licence if you didn't have a retail version of windows.
You can call Microsoft and explain your situation and see if they give you a key. But they are under no legal obligation to do so.

 

[Helldog26]

What Suztera said. Its much better and easier just to do a Clean install of Windows if you can afford it.

 

[manky2]

Better to reinstall windows.
You will need a new window licence if you didn't have a retail version of windows.
You can call Microsoft and explain your situation and see if they give you a key. But they are under no legal obligation to do so.

How do I check if I have a retail version of windows?

 

[Helldog26]

Did you buy your computer pre-built with Windows installed?

 

[Suztera]

Go into System in Control Panel, look at Product ID.
You can also right click on 'My computer' and select properties.
If it has OEM at the end, it is OEM.
What Windows do you have? 7 or 8.1?

 

[manky2]

Okay the Product ID does not have an OEM in it. I have windows 7 Professional.

 

[Suztera]

Okay the Product ID does not have an OEM in it. I have windows 7 Professional.

Check yours with this list:
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/threads/18255-Windows-7-Channel-ID-portion-of-Product-ID
I assume the end is 177 for you.
If that is the case, you can reuse the key but you may need to reactivate it. You can use the automated service and it will allow you to reuse your window licence.