Upgrading without re-installing windows.

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NicholasVickers

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Jul 27, 2014
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Alright so here is the deal. When I decided to make my PC, I got This Motherboard . I Have since Crossfired my R9 290 with a 290X, and it has limited my performance for a while now. So with a possibility of upgrading, I looked for a better option and wondering if THIS may be a better solution. If not, then if anyone has a better choice please do hesitate to give a new option instead. P.S. I had to get a new Wireless Adapter because the PCIE Adapter I was using for wireless disabled my crossfire entirely.
 
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Wolfshadw
Since you're using Windows 8.1 and they're both Z97 motherboards, I'm leaning towards you could *probably* get away without re-installing the OS. You will need to install the new LAN and Audio drivers, but everything else should remain the same. No promises and I'd recommend cloning your current OS to a separate hard drive on the off chance something goes wrong with the motherboard swap.

-Wolf sends
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rustybh1

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Not entirely sure what you're asking. Are you asking if it's possible to change out your mobo WITHOUT reinstalling windows, or are you just looking for a warm and fuzzy on your choice of mobo upgrades?
 
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rustybh1

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The only issue you'll have is that you won't be able to register your copy of windows again remotely. It'll take a phone call to MS support to be able to re-use that license key.

 
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rustybh1

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Correct, and therefore if you have an OEM version of Windows you will not be able to transfer the license key, however as the original poster stated he built his PC, then I assumed that he has installed a retail copy of Windows which is transferable.

 
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Wolfshadw

Wolfshadw

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Since the OP did not mention which OS s/he's running, whether or not the license is transferable is a moot point. The fact is, per the license agreement, the Windows 7 OEM license is tied to the original motherboard is was installed on. However, people have continually reported success in calling Microsoft to get the OEM license transferred and activated to a new motherboard. This is by no means a guarantee, but it may work. With the release of Windows 8, Microsoft updated the license agreement to allow the Windows 8 OEM license to be transferable, should the motherboard be changed.

-Wolf sends
 
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NicholasVickers

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Here are my specs
i5-4670 QuadCore @3.4/.5GHz LGA 1150
MSI Radeon R9 290 4GB @1000 Mhz/ 1280 Mhz
MSI Radeon R9 290X 4GB @1250 Mhz/
16GB[2x8GB(2 x 4GB)] of 2133 G. Skill RAM 10-12-12-31
LGA 1150 Z97 ASRock Pro4 Motherboard
2 TB Segate Barracuda 7200RPM + 120GB Kingston SSD
6 Total Case Fans (2x 140mm & 4x 120mm)
EVGA SUPERNOVA 850W 80+ Gold Fully Modular
Windows 8.1(Purchased)
 
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Wolfshadw

Wolfshadw

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Since you're using Windows 8.1 and they're both Z97 motherboards, I'm leaning towards you could *probably* get away without re-installing the OS. You will need to install the new LAN and Audio drivers, but everything else should remain the same. No promises and I'd recommend cloning your current OS to a separate hard drive on the off chance something goes wrong with the motherboard swap.

-Wolf sends
 
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