Obtaining retail keys via Microsoft Linked Windows 10
Obtaining retail keys via Microsoft Linked Windows 10
I'm planning to restore Windows 10 on a PC that already has a retail license but is tied to a Microsoft account. Ideally, I'd prefer a setup using a local account instead. Since I don't have the license key handy, there might be ways to retrieve it without purchasing Windows again.
It’s likely to start automatically using your hardware ID without needing to log into the MS account, letting you use your local account instead. This has worked well for me when installing or reinstalling Windows many times. The only situation where an MS account is useful is during major hardware changes that prevent MS from recognizing your machine.
It's possible to achieve this as well; the feature likely turns on automatically. You may need to input it later if necessary.
It depends on your needs. Keeping the product ID alongside the key can help you track or manage both items together.
The update aims for a clean slate (it’s been three and a half years) and since you’re installing a new SSD. I’d just want to detach the Microsoft account during this step.
Ensure internet connection is off before reinstalling, or else the installer will require you to sign up for a new account.
I've consistently relied on a service named Jellybean to retrieve keys: https://www.magicaljellybean.com/