Upgrading Hardware, Need Advice

[RP75379]

Hey gang! I'm currently in the process of upgrading my computer as its been around 6 years since I built it. I'm upgrading my motherboard, CPU, CPU Fan, GPU, ram, and case fans. I'm keeping my SSD that I have windows installed and my HDD where I have all my other crap.

I'm currently running Windows 10. My question is with how Windows 10 works, will I need to do a fresh install after I plug in all my new components to my old case and SSD / HDD. Should I make a USB install or will I be able to just do a fresh install through the BIOS because Windows 10 will recognize my genuine activation on my current SSD drive?

Thanks for the advice!

 

[basroil]

Most likely Win 10 will deactivate the license you have since the PC is for all intents and purposes a completely different system. Tough luck, but most likely you'll have to buy a new license anyway.

Aside from the license issue, any time you change the CPU and motherboard you should do a clean install anyway.

 

[RP75379]

That isn't how it used to work in my past experience though. The product key was with your person and you could change it when upgrading. Will I really need to purchase another license?

 

[basroil]

That isn't how it used to work in my past experience though. The product key was with your person and you could change it when upgrading. Will I really need to purchase another license?

You are talking about a retail key. OEM keys have ALWAYS been locked to a motherboard. Windows 10 works a bit different since it's activation based, but basically anyone who buys Win 10 retail can reactivate using their retail key. Anyone with OEM or a free upgrade from 7/8 does not get that privilage.