[SOLVED] Upgrading motherboard, cpu, and ram

[jOSEPH_de]

So I have windows 10 right now and am planning to upgrade my cpu, motherboard, and my ram. Do I need to buy windows again or can I somehow transfer it over to the new motherboard/cpu? If I can transfer the windows how do I do it? Thanks

 

[richiestang_78]

Depends on if its a OEM (for example included with a Dell or HP) copy or not. If its a retail copy you should be able to just reinstall it. If its OEM you will need to buy a retail copy of Windows or look for a cheap OEM key, usually 20-30usd.

Of course you can just download and use Windows 10 without a key with some minor restrictions and a watermark.

 

[onespeedbiker]

It's also likely the Windows 10 license is connected to you through your MS account. After you do the install, if it doesn't self activate, you can call MS to activate the license. Apparently Windows 10 license used to be tied to the motherboard, but that changed https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/20530/windows-10-reactivating-after-hardware-change https://www.windowscentral.com/how-re-activate-windows-10-after-hardware-change