Upgrading my PC, what to do with windows

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BlueStyled

Commendable
Dec 8, 2016
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Hello dear people of the internet!

I'm planning on upgrading my pc. (new ssd, mobo, cpu.) and planning on using my old windows key.

i have windows on my HHD now, and obviously i want to get it on my SSD when i upgrade my PC. and still use my HHD as mass storage.

So... HOW DO I DO IT????

i still have my original windows key license and CD, yes i use a CD drive : D

i hope my question is clear and i dont confuse yall, thanks in advance guys!



 
Solution
coozie7
The above is true but the unregistering bit will not be required if you have a full retail (as opposed to OEM or Builder) license.

Even if you have an OEM license, I've found Win7 and earlier will usually reinstall and swap over without drama.

Whatever you do, you'll want a clean install onto the new SSD so to start download and save out all the relevant drivers to a USB flash drive and update the motherboard BIOS to the latest version.

Try:
Disconnect the HDD.
Install the SSD hardware.
Boot from DVD and install Windows.
Install the drivers you saved out earlier.
See if Windows has activated-it won't activate until the motherboard internet drivers are installed and the system has restarted.
If all is well, power down and reconnect...
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jsmithepa

jsmithepa

Polypheme
Jun 14, 2014
13,096
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60,840
A simple one liner: "How to transfer Windows license from old to new PC."

Is asked all the time.

I recommend these steps (assuming license is transferable):

1. Install Windows on new box from original CD but DO NOT Activate.
2. Unregister Windows from old box (Google Internet on exact procedure).
3. Now Activate Windows on new box.

 
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coozie7

coozie7

Champion
Jun 2, 2007
10,015
10
59,215
The above is true but the unregistering bit will not be required if you have a full retail (as opposed to OEM or Builder) license.

Even if you have an OEM license, I've found Win7 and earlier will usually reinstall and swap over without drama.

Whatever you do, you'll want a clean install onto the new SSD so to start download and save out all the relevant drivers to a USB flash drive and update the motherboard BIOS to the latest version.

Try:
Disconnect the HDD.
Install the SSD hardware.
Boot from DVD and install Windows.
Install the drivers you saved out earlier.
See if Windows has activated-it won't activate until the motherboard internet drivers are installed and the system has restarted.
If all is well, power down and reconnect the HDD.
Power up and reformat the HDD.
Done.
 
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