Check your system requirements and follow the installation guide for OS during the upgrade of MOBO+CPU.
Check your system requirements and follow the installation guide for OS during the upgrade of MOBO+CPU.
You're planning an upgrade to an i5 6600K and a Z170 motherboard later this year. Since you're using AMD hardware, you'll want to check if your current operating system will still work after the change. It's common to lose Windows activation when replacing the mainboard, but there are ways around it—like keeping the original license or using a different activation method. Let me know if you'd like more details!
You could reach out to Microsoft support for help with the retail version, but with an OEM key, your options are limited.
You have a retail Windows 10 Pro installation. It’s best to check the official support options to see if it can be returned or if you need to upgrade to another version.
I recently added a new motherboard and CPU to my system (3770K+Z77->5820K+X99). The OS (Windows 10, upgraded from Windows 7 Home Premium) functioned correctly without needing reinstallation. My Windows license was deactivated, but entering the Windows 7 license again resolved the activation issue properly.
You should have a retail key, that’s the safe path. It can either turn active again or you’ll need to dial the automated activation line. Retail Windows Keys give the owner permission to switch the key between devices, provided it never runs on more machines than the license permits—typically just one PC at a time. When issues arise, call the activation number for your region and follow the instructions. You can also try pressing random numbers or giving the automated voice unusual commands like “go to hell” to get a live agent. For phone numbers of activation centers by country, visit the provided link: http://www.urtech.ca/2014/07/solved-how-...e-product/. Microsoft’s support page covers activation details: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/326851
This feature doesn't need reactivation based on current understanding.
I plan to upgrade my PC next week as well. Would you like to know more about transferring Windows? I’m changing from 3570k+Z77 to 6700k+Z170 and moving my SSD (Windows 7 64-bit Enterprise) to the new system. The HDD and SSD are the only replacements allowed. How should I proceed with moving the operating system? Should I simply transfer the drive and it work? Do I need to uninstall existing drivers beforehand? I mentioned this in another thread, but most people seem to prefer reinstalling the OS.