Will i need a new windows OS if i change my motherboard and cpu?

okatashin

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I currently have windows 7 64 bit OEM installed and was wondering if I could still use it or not when i upgrade my cpu and motherboard. If i do have to get another windows OS, will i need to prep my PC in any way?

thanks in advance :)
 
Solution
Yes. That's what I would do. Just copy your data files, documents, email/favorites exports to another hard drive and then, once the OS is re-installed, move them back.

-Wolf sends

En3rgy

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You will have to insert your OS disk in the pc ( after every thing is done etc etc ) ...
you should just call a tech to do that thing for you.. much more easier..
but you do not need to buy an extra disk.. just use the old one :)
 

okatashin

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So i'll need a new windows license key and a disk with windows installation on it. Will I have to do anything prior to changing my motherboard and cpu though?
 

Wolfshadw

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Per the Windows 7 OEM license agreement, you will need a new Product Key. However, many people have reported success in re-activating their old Windows License. It may require a phone call to Microsoft, but that's generally a lot cheaper than a new license. No harm in trying it first.

-Wolf sends
 

okatashin

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Thanks for the tip, only problem is I'll be doing this on Christmas so that may not be a very quick possibility.
 

melonhead

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if the OS is installed as OEM, it is tied to the MB istelf which makes it difficult for someone in your situation. its not impossible to get around it, but im not sure how easy it would be to do it. like wolfshadow said, you may have to call MS to see if they can work with you so you wont have to buy a new key.
 

okatashin

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I completely forgot about that, will I have to do anything prior to the hardware change like delete any software or do something about my current but soon to be old OS since i'll be using the same SSD it's on?
 

Wolfshadw

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Recommendation would be to back up any data you want saved and then do a complete format during the Windows 7 installation procedure. Install your other programs once Windows is installed and updated. Nothing else should be required.

-Wolf sends
 

okatashin

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Is that just an option when i start the installation and how would I go about backing up the files and getting them back on my ssd,drag and dropping into a different hard drive?
 

okatashin

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Great, thank you for the help. :)
 

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