The new components could nullify your free Windows 10 upgrade, so I'm seeking clarification on this matter.
The new components could nullify your free Windows 10 upgrade, so I'm seeking clarification on this matter.
Regarding retail options, the 8.1 Pro model should allow activating W10 across various devices, though compatibility depends on hardware differences. OEM support is confirmed, but retail isn't.
This employee might be talking about HDD and SSD, because you would be able to get windows 7 and 8 back by re installing, bust not windows 10, you would have to go through the whole process again, unless it says "Wait you already used it, so you cant get a free upgrade again haha looserrrr" But hey, its not proven yet
Upgrading from an OEM or retail Windows 7/Windows 8/8.1 version to Windows 10 changes the license type. The original license remains valid, but it becomes a retail license. When you move to the free Windows 10 upgrade this summer, the license is absorbed into it. Since the free version comes from a qualifying base license, Windows 10 will inherit that licensing arrangement. Retail upgrades carry full rights without needing prior versions, while OEM upgrades are tied to the initial installation and cannot be used for direct upgrades to other systems. Changing your motherboard affects the OEM license, making the free upgrade invalid unless you purchase a new retail license. If your original license was a full retail version, transferring it is possible.
OEM is linked to the specific machine it runs on. Retail is connected to the buyer. This means if you start with a brand new PC and switch to Windows 8.1 and then upgrade to Windows 10, because you have a retail key, your Windows 10 should still become active since retail keys can be used on multiple devices as long as they’re only on one at a time. If you have three computers sharing the same key, you’ll need to purchase extra license rights for the other two. Unless buying additional licenses is more affordable or simpler, it’s better to purchase Windows 10 directly. Retail Windows 10 Pro costs $199.
I'm referring to that discussion we had about the MS-Support page. After upgrading to Windows 10, your license becomes linked to your hardware—specifically your motherboard. You can modify most settings except for this one. This applies even to upgraded Windows 7/8 retail licenses. I attempted it and it failed to activate on another mainboard. You could revert to your original Windows 7/8 retail if you wish, provided the upgrade period is still active. However, if your mainboard fails soon, you'll return to your previous setup and need a full reinstall. Purchasing a retail license for Windows 10 gives you similar freedom to change hardware as with Windows 7 and 8. The restrictions mentioned only affect upgraded versions.