When changing my motherboard, will I have to purchase a new Windows license key?

MyBurger_

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First off, I'm changing my CPU to a more updated i5-4690K. When doing so I'll be replacing my motherboard as well. I've heard I'll need to buy a new Windows 7 license as it's tied to my motherboard, correct? Even if I've already bought a legitimate key, I can't use the same one?
 
Solution


Then that is an OEM license, and as such, tied to that original motherboard.

USAFRet

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This depends on a couple of things:

Why are you changing the motherboard?
What specific license is it, Retail or OEM?
 

MyBurger_

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The current CPU is a bit older, and doesn't support the i5.

And how do I tell?

 

MyBurger_

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Yep, the letters OEM are there.

 

USAFRet

Titan
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Then that is an OEM license, and as such, tied to that original motherboard.
 
Solution

MyBurger_

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Okay, thank you!