What will happen to your license?
What will happen to your license?
You own an OEM Windows setup on your personal PC, meaning the activation code is linked to your motherboard. If you change it, you’d need to purchase Windows again. I recently got a Windows 7 machine from a neighbor and plan to pass it on to a cousin for an upgrade. I couldn’t locate a way to reset it without the installation media, so I tried installing Windows 10 and using the sticker code from the case—which is for Windows 7. Based on this, it seems your code might not be tied to the disc you used. Windows launched without issues, suggesting it wasn’t blocked by the internet. However, I worry Microsoft might flag the code across devices and cancel your installation. What went wrong?
You're asking for clarification on several points. Could you provide more details? I need to understand exactly what you're referring to by "put Windows 10," the source of Windows 10, the disk involved, and whether you've performed any upgrades or clean installs. Also, did you run the setup in Windows 7 and boot from a disk?
No key is linked to a specific drive—install or boot from the drive itself. Win7 OEM keys are found on the COA sticker, and if it isn’t branded, it may be relocated (my copy is on the third motherboard). When it’s branded, it’s secured to the first motherboard it connects with. The free upgrade window has passed, but some sources suggest it might still be viable.
I attempted to install the disc and put it into my computer. This is my Windows 10, originally installed on my personal machine. I used the setup from Windows 7, which means I started with Windows 7 and then ran the disc as if it were a standard program. I also instructed the setup to wipe everything from before, like my neighbors did. Still, when it boots up, it keeps asking if I want to boot Windows 10 or perform a system repair. I’m wondering if it still recognizes Windows 7 and wants to use it. Thanks!
This was a smooth upgrade process. The original owner's programs and files were left untouched. The PC was transitioned from Windows 7 to Windows 10 without needing the activation key. You can verify this by checking Start > Settings (gear icon) > Update & Security > Activation. If the system was previously upgraded to Windows 10 or had the Get Windows 10 app installed, the license was reserved for future upgrades. No key was required to enter. After the upgrade, ensure the boot settings are correct by opening the msconfig panel, selecting "Normal startup," and restarting your computer. This should resolve any issues.
Thank you for your feedback! It looks like the standard configuration was already chosen. I pressed OK and restarted, but system restore remained available. Could you give any hints? Apologies for the delayed reply.