Reinstall Windows 10 again
Reinstall Windows 10 again
I made the changes needed for this setup. The pre-built came with Windows 10 but didn’t include a disk or USB drive. I had to remove the small SSD boot drive for the Plex server project. Since I’m converting it into a Plex server, I’d like to run Windows again just in case. I’m open to trying Linux but prefer Windows. I bought a genuine retail Windows key with the original USB, so it should still work on another machine. I’m wondering if Microsoft recognized this computer as having a valid key at the time of manufacture, and that the Windows key I bought is still valid. Please let me know if this makes sense.
No, your Microsoft account wasn't linked on the older version of Windows. The key was copied over afterward.
The connection is tied to the motherboard, eliminating the need for manual activation.
Because the motherboard remained active, no replacement was necessary. You didn’t have to purchase a new Windows version. The purchased key is still available and can be used elsewhere.
Great, I’m preparing another build and it will proceed as planned. Thanks for the prompt reply!