Use the Activation Troubleshooter. Select and sign in to your Microsoft account. SSD/Hard Drive Swap

: As of September 2023, Microsoft has blocked the use of old Windows 7 or 8 keys to activate new installations of Windows 10/11.

Are you planning to to a new computer or just reinstalling Windows on your current one?

: When you first activate Windows 10, a unique hardware ID is sent to Microsoft's activation servers.

: Linking your license to your Microsoft account allows you to reactivate Windows using the Activation Troubleshooter if you make significant hardware changes, such as replacing the motherboard. Checking Your Status To verify if your PC is using a digital license: Open Settings (Windows Key + I). Navigate to Update & Security > Activation .

For official step-by-step guidance on various activation issues, you can visit the Microsoft Activation Support page .

A Windows 10 (also known as a digital entitlement) is an activation method that links your Windows license directly to your PC’s hardware ID (HWID) , specifically the motherboard, instead of requiring a 25-character product key for every reinstallation. How Digital Licensing Works