Insert the BIOS and enter the setup mode to save the Windows 10 product key.
Insert the BIOS and enter the setup mode to save the Windows 10 product key.
I'm setting up a PC for a friend and want to keep the product key safely inside the system. Storing it in the BIOS ensures it's protected whether the SSD is replaced or the board is wiped. Printing the key on paper and placing it in the case works, but saving it in BIOS simplifies things further. The MSI B450 Tomahawk supports the latest BIOS updates. You're having trouble finding instructions online and the manual doesn't mention this step. Since you've used BIOS keys before, you're right about its reliability.
Key: OEMs → EPROMM → Hard drive → Windows install
Save for later.
This process is already set up. After Windows creates a unique identifier for your PC, it forwards that information to Microsoft’s activation servers. If you need to reinstall Windows, the installer recognizes the UUID from earlier and reuses it automatically—saving time.
Regarding OEM keys, I’m not entirely sure if this applies outside official Windows versions. You usually buy them directly from the manufacturer, which is about €10. For OEM keys, the method is straightforward once you have the key, though storing it in the BIOS isn’t something you typically do unless you’re working with hardware modifications.
Windows keeps track of the motherboard. If you keep the same board, it will turn on itself automatically upon connecting to the internet.
My Windows 10 is the home edition, and the shop staff said it saved in my CMOS. I’m not sure because when I reinstall Windows, the system won’t start without an internet connection to activate it. If I don’t connect for a while, it works fine but doesn’t recognize activation. There’s no watermark, and I can change my wallpaper—everything feels customizable. I believe the activation key is stored on the motherboard, possibly in a chip. If that’s not the case, why does Windows still think it’s active even though the key isn’t recognized? When I bought this PC, I logged into my Microsoft account, which linked to my MS account. In the Activation section, it says: “Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.” So if you log in first, maybe it connected to your account automatically.
With certain special tools, you might be able to handle it. Just remember to understand what you're doing and make sure your motherboard is safe—don’t let it explode. You could contact the manufacturer for advice, check programmer blogs online, or search using a search engine.