Have you received a new PC and want to transfer your Windows license? In many cases, you can use the same product key on the new machine, as long as the license allows it. Here we show you how to do it step by step.
Can the license be transferred?
Before you start, you need to know which license you have. Retail licenses can usually be transferred to a new PC, while OEM licenses are normally tied to the hardware they were first activated on.
- Retail – can be transferred to a new PC
- OEM – usually used on one PC
Step 1: Remove the license from the old PC
- Open Command Prompt as administrator
- Type: slmgr /upk
- Press Enter
This deactivates the product key on the old machine.
Step 2: Install Windows on the new PC
Install the same version of Windows that the license applies to, either Home or Pro.
Step 3: Activate on the new PC
- Open Settings
- Go to System
- Select Activation
- Click Change product key
- Enter the product key
When the PC is connected to the internet, Windows will be activated.
If the license is linked to a Microsoft account
You can use activation troubleshooting:
- Sign in with the same Microsoft account
- Go to Activation
- Select Troubleshoot
- Click I have changed hardware on this device
If the license cannot be transferred
Then you need a new product key for the new PC. You can activate it as soon as you receive the key digitally.
Transfer the license in a few minutes
If you have the correct license, you can activate Windows on the new PC in no time. Install the system, enter the product key and you are ready to go.