I plan to update my motherboard and CPU. But the license key (Windows 11 Pro) does not look right.

Question

I plan to update my motherboard and CPU. But the license key (Windows 11 Pro) does not look right.

I had purchased a proper license (for Windows 10 Pro) and have the receipt, but it now shows as OEM.

Answer 1

If you mean you bought what was described as Windows 11 Pro Retail and now it shows as OEM and not retail then that is the 3rd party seller I'm afraid.

If you have a product key (which I assume you have) get ShowKeyPlus from the windows Store and enter your key at Check edition. Does that confirm the licence is OEM or Retail.

If it shows as OEM then it cannot be used when you switch to new hardware.

Answer 2

When you update your motherboard and CPU, it can affect the activation status of your Windows license. If your license is showing as OEM, it typically means it is tied to the original hardware it was activated on, which is often the motherboard. Since you have a receipt for a proper license for Windows 10 Pro, you may be able to reactivate Windows 11 Pro using that license, but it might require some steps to ensure it is recognized correctly.

If you encounter issues with activation after the hardware upgrade, you can try the following:

1. Use the Activation Troubleshooter: This can help you reactivate Windows if it was previously activated on your Microsoft account.
2. Contact Microsoft Support: Since you have the receipt, they may be able to assist you in reassigning your license to the new hardware.
3. Check your Microsoft Account: If your license is linked to your Microsoft account, signing in with that account on the new hardware may automatically reactivate Windows.

Keep in mind that if the license is indeed OEM, it may not be transferable to new hardware, and you might need to purchase a new license if you cannot reactivate it successfully.