Using the same Windows 8 Key twice?

[JMR120600]

Hi, So earlier today i bought a Samsung 840 Evo 250gb from Amazon and i am pretty sure on this, but can i use the same activation code again, as the OS is tied to the motherboard? Is this correct?

 

[USAFRet]

From where did you obtain the OS?
Preinstalled or did you buy it and install it?

 

[USAFRet]

If preinstalled, it is indeed tied to that motherboard.
If it is a Win 8 that you bought and installed, you can reinstall on whatever hardware you want. 1 PC at a time.

 

[Jim90]

If you have a retail W8 copy (i.e. have the install discs) then there will not be a problem. An OEM copy should also be ok (I don't think the license is tied to anything but the motherboard).
If all you are doing is moving your OS from an HDD onto the new SSD then you can greatly simplify the process by using imaging software (e.g. Acronis True Image / Norton Ghost). Simply disconnect the HDD and restore the image onto the SSD. Running Windows Experience Index then optimises Windows for the SSD. It's also the easiest way to make regular backups.

 

[USAFRet]

If you are just moving to a new hard drive, no problem.

A clean install is recommended over a migration, but the migration usually works. Usually.

 

[dextermat]

+1 should be ok if same computer with only HD changed

 

[JMR120600]

Ok, It was a copy that i bought about 5 months ago, when i changed to windows 8 after building the desktop. It is a system builder copy.

 

[JMR120600]

From just reading around, It doesnt seem that System Builder copies are tied to any part of the PC, but im not sure on that one.

 

[USAFRet]

From just reading around, It doesnt seem that System Builder copies are tied to any part of the PC, but im not sure on that one.

You can reinstall no problem.

 

[JMR120600]

Thanks. Picked best answer.