Do I have to purchase a new license when replacing the motherboard on my computer?

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2026-09-17T15:07:42.2666667+00:00

I'm going to replace the motherboard in my wife's computer. will I have to purchase another license. If not, how do I find the current license?

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Licensing and activation
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  1. DaveM121 932.4K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-17T15:40:54.26+00:00

    It depends on what type of Windows licence is installed on your wife's PC.

    1

    Where did you get the Windows licence was that pre-installed on your wife's PC or did you purchase a full retail Windows licence from Microsoft or from a 3rd party retailer?

    Or is your Windows licence based on a free upgrade form a previous Windows 7 or 8 licence?

    2

    Click your Start Button, type cmd then right click Command Prompt and choose 'Run as Administrator'

    Run or paste this command and hit Enter:

    slmgr.vbs /dlv

    Please post a screenshot of the resulting dialog

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  2. AI answer

    2026-09-17T15:07:57.78+00:00

    Replacing the motherboard can require a new Windows license, depending on the license type.

    • If Windows was preinstalled by the PC manufacturer as an OEM license, replacing the motherboard is treated as a new device, and a new license is required.
    • If the motherboard was replaced by the original hardware manufacturer (OEM), Windows should reactivate automatically. If it does not, use the product key from the COA card if one was provided.
    • If there is a retail product key, it can be entered again after the hardware change in Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Change product key.
    • If the device used a digital license linked to a Microsoft account, reactivation may be possible through the Activation troubleshooter after the hardware change.

    To find the current license or activation method:

    1. Open Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
    2. Check whether Windows is activated and review the activation details there.
    3. If a product key is needed:
      • For a PC bought with Windows preinstalled, the key may be preinstalled, included with packaging, or on a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the device.
      • If Windows was bought from the Microsoft Store online, the product key is in the confirmation email, and Microsoft keeps a record in Order history.
    4. After the motherboard replacement, if Windows is not activated, try:
      • Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Troubleshoot
      • If available, use the option for a recent hardware change.

    If activation still fails after a significant hardware change, Microsoft support documentation says to contact customer support.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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