Should i reload the os if i use old hard drive while assambling the new pc

[Darshan_5]

I have got an old hard drive which has windows 7 in it but i am building the new gaming pc so i am replacing everything except the hard drive so should i reload the os ?

 

[bliq]

generally, yes, because the new motherboard will require different drivers, most likely. you might be able to use sysprep to force the OS to re-detect the motherboard and other components. Not sure on how that's licensed these days though. also, OEM versions of Windows probably won't be licensed on the new build since they're tied to the motherboard.

 

[jdlech]

I would.
Sometimes just starting over is quicker and easier.

 

[dsnelson23]

As stated, you will need to purchase a new product key for your OS. Once you change motherboards, you have to leave your old license behind.

 

[jdlech]

That's not necessarily true. I downloaded W10 and burned it to disk (and USB) from an old W7 laptop. Then I built a whole new desktop and clean installed W10 onto it. I typed in the key from the old laptop and it activated fine.
Of course, I have no plans on ever using that old laptop anymore. Dunno what would happen if I tried to fire it up. But I believe I chanced upon the sole exception to the rule.
Apparently, W10 did not compare old hardware hash #s when upgrading. So you could port the OS to any machine you wanted when doing a clean install.

 

[bliq]

oh, it does check. how you got it to work, I have no idea... but good for you. I wouldn't count on it working again though.