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replacing the cpu and reactivation of windows

Anonymous
2025-05-20T22:23:36+00:00

I'd like to replace my CPU. As I understand it will require a reactivation of Windows with my license. The last license I have for my current copy of Windows is Windows 8. I received free upgrades for both Windows 10 and 11. I'm fairly certain this Windows 8 license will not be valid for reactivating Windows 11. If this is the case, how will I be able to reactivate Windows 11 after replacing my CPU? Is there a method to query my machine for a valid updated license attached to my Windows 11 installation?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Licensing and activation

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  1. Ivan B 107.6K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-05-21T02:33:10+00:00

    Hi ,

    If you purchased a key separately and upgraded to Windows 10, you will be able to use this license on Windows 11. In this case, you just need to use the same Microsoft account if you purchased a digital license or if it is a product key, you just need to remove the license and install Windows 11 with the product key that you have and log in with the Microsoft account used so that it will be activated when Windows 11 starts up.

    Since you are already using it, if you are going to upgrade the CPU, I recommend doing a clean installation for Windows 11.

    You can use showkeyplus (https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9pkvzcprx9nv?...) to check your license that is installed. To make a note of it before installing for Windows 11, just access the command prompt (admin) and run the command slmgr /dlv to remove the installed license.

    Help the community by letting us know whether the answer was useful or not and by submitting an evaluation.

    Independent Advisor - Community

    Thanks

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-05-21T02:07:30+00:00

    AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

    mobo is ASUS X570-E

    this is basically the final CPU generation that fits this socket. trying to get the most life out of it possible.

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  2. Ivan B 107.6K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-05-21T01:10:38+00:00

    Hi ,

    Which CPU are you going to change to?

    Independent Advisor - Community

    Thanks

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-05-21T01:09:10+00:00

    I do not have to change my motherboard. My updated CPU is compatible with my current motherboard. Does this change your response?

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  4. Ivan B 107.6K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-05-21T00:14:47+00:00

    Hi ,

    I am Ivan, I will help you with this.

    Well, if you upgrade your CPU, you would have to change your motherboard. In this case, your PC's OEM license would not be valid after replacing these components, so you would have to buy a new Windows 10/11 license.

    The license you received when you upgraded for free is an OEM license that is linked to the PC. If you bought it together with the PC, it is already activated. If you bought it separately (retail), yes, you can use the license for Windows 10/11.

    Help the community by letting us know whether the answer was useful or not and by submitting an evaluation.

    Independent Advisor - Community

    Thanks

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