Restarting Windows 10 after hardware modifications can be done easily.
Restarting Windows 10 after hardware modifications can be done easily.
Microsoft is making W10 free upgrades through Hardware ID instead of changing the license key, which means swapping out parts like the motherboard will invalidate your installation. I understand one solution could be going back to older versions such as 8.1 and then 10 again. Is there any way to get help from Microsoft support to fix this? Thanks, ChrisxlxCross
The only way Microsoft can proceed is if you supply the key for 8.1. With it you’re covered; without it, you’re left with limited choices—either retry and upgrade as suggested, or try to reactivate through questionable methods. Fortunately, I saved my Windows 7 key before the upgrade, since my system crashed shortly afterward. I created a recovery drive from another Windows 10 machine, reinstalled everything, and just needed to contact Microsoft with my key. They handled it smoothly. If you reach out without a valid key, they might hesitate, possibly requesting a remote session to inspect your PC, and then insist you purchase a costly replacement.