Yes, it is possible to perform a fresh installation of Windows 10 without having your key.
Yes, it is possible to perform a fresh installation of Windows 10 without having your key.
I've been experiencing frequent crashes lately, so I considered a clean installation. I've backed up all my crucial files and prepared a USB drive. However, while setting up the installation, I realized I don't remember the Windows key since I cloned my previous laptop's drive to this new desktop with Windows installed. My concern is: Can I perform a fresh install (Windows 10 if that affects anything) without needing the key? I'm hoping it will prompt me for it during setup.
The key is linked to your CPU and MOBO. If you reinstall Windows on it—even with a brand-new HDD—it will start automatically. You won’t have to enter a product key. Just ensure the machine already had Windows 10 enabled beforehand.
You're already using Windows 10, which is great—so you're all set to begin a clean installation.
According to others, it should be saved in the BIOS. For extra peace of mind, you can quickly retrieve your key using ProduKey. It’s convenient because it’s portable—no installation required.
When you clone Windows, it shouldn't be turned on automatically. If it is, it may be removed during a clean installation because it was previously installed on another machine. Follow these steps:
- How to use your free Windows 10 license after changing hardware: http://www.howtogeek.com/226510/how-to-u...ng-your-pc
- Clean install instructions: http://www.howtogeek.com/224342/how-to-c...windows-10
When you sign in using a Microsoft account, your product is linked to that account. You can perform a fresh installation without problems.