changed mobo and cpu and now windows wont activate

Question

As the title says, I updated my motherboard and cpu and now Windows is not activated and says I cannot reactivate because I activated in the past. Are we not supposed to change Window componants ? How can I fix this ?

Answer 1

Hello Aaron Krenz,

It really depend on the method/type of activation you purchased from the start (there are 3 types of keys):

1. OEM (this one come with the manufacturer meaning you purchased Laptop/PC and comes with activated windows for free. However, if motherboard changed the activation is gone as it tied to the hardware.
2. Retail (this one purchased directly by companies/institutions in business/education usually comes with volume licenses to activate many computers (Note: some scams online may offer keys for less price and it's not valid since it's retail so watchout)
3. Last One (the Digital License): which you purchased from Microsoft (this one has advantage whatever the hardware changes you can activate the software)

Try out the (Reactivate Windows 11 after a hardware change steps) below may help if you have already digital license:

Reference: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/using-the-windows-activation-troubleshooter-d717cdff-cf19-9770-7198-40119c2a696c

#Reactivating Windows after a hardware change

Good Luck!