Yes, you can retain the Windows installation from your old machine after swapping the motherboard and CPU.

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KRB17
Junior Member

18

12-15-2016, 10:09 PM

#1

My graphics card or CPU stopped working after six loyal years. They didn’t report any issues and the repair shop didn’t have spare parts for AM3+. I’m planning to switch to a Ryzen system this week and wondered if I could keep my old Windows 10 installation alongside my current setup, since I haven’t backed up my Dark Souls 2 saves or much else. Would it be safe to run my old Windows install on the new one? Thanks all and goodbye!

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chiefjumbo
Member

183

12-20-2016, 10:57 PM

#2

Windows is similar to users in that it lets them switch PCs while keeping the same OS, though it usually functions well until your first major change. You’ll likely not have much control afterward.

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piff2222
Member

57

12-21-2016, 01:55 AM

#3

It shouldn't be an issue, but you may have to sign in with your Microsoft account.

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mille999s
Junior Member

29

12-23-2016, 11:11 AM

#4

You have the ability, but it might not function properly because Windows resists major hardware overhauls. I recommend restoring everything from backups and reinstalling Windows 10 to prevent potential problems that could be hard to spot.

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SnowiZig
Junior Member

23

12-24-2016, 09:06 AM

#5

It remains functional on Windows 10, enabling him to back up his data. He may face issues reinstalling the Windows license, and a fresh installation on a different system would be highly beneficial.

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DaLuZshow
Member

200

01-08-2017, 10:48 PM

#6

Hey there. You can reuse your old Windows setup on a fresh system. The key points are summarized below; the complete guide is available on Microsoft’s website if you need more details. Spoiler link: connect your Windows 10 license to your Microsoft account. Verify if your digital license is already tied to your MS account. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Activation. If it says "Windows is activated with a digital license": the license isn’t linked. If it says "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account": it is connected. Proceed to Step 2. Log in as an administrator and add your MS account under Settings > Accounts. Return to Settings > Update & Security > Activation. Ensure the Activation field reads: "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account." Run the activation troubleshooter to reactivate. Sign in as an administrator again. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Troubleshoot. Choose "I changed hardware on this device recently." Enter your MS account and password when prompted, then confirm "This is the device I’m using right now." Select Activate. Windows 10 should now be properly activated on your new setup. Source: Reactivating Windows 10 After a Hardware Change by Microsoft.

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Chuck978
Member

110

01-09-2017, 02:29 AM

#7

This question has been asked many times before. The solution is straightforward—your system is already running. For details, check the advanced guide provided.

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awsomegirl369
Member

57

01-16-2017, 12:02 PM

#8

@Tom_Nerd, Berkomeister, jaslion, Rancidpunk: Appreciate the help! All I need is to back up the files I should have done earlier—I’ll do a clean install afterward. My MS loyalty papers are all set, so I hope activation and reinstall proceed smoothly. @Eschew, homeap: Thanks for the tips and guides! I was concerned about potential hardware problems, but it seems Windows handles that well.