Do I need a new key?

[Zeorth]

So I’m upgrading my computer and in that I’m upgrading my motherboard. Since a new motherboard counts as a “new device” to windows will I need a new key? I will be reusing my old ssd but the windows key is OEM. 

[Windows7ge]

The key is usually tied to the motherboard yes.

Some people make a Microsoft Acc and have the key tied to that so when they move their boot drive to a different machine the motherboard swap doesn't matter.

I know certain keys can be used to activate one machine more than once which would be ideal for your case. (this MAY be your case)

 

Unfortunately I can't give you a definitive answer this isn't really my field. Worse comes to worse you have to call Microsoft support and make then reactivate your key.

[charbel1011]

21 hours ago, OreoPandas said:

So I’m upgrading my computer and in that I’m upgrading my motherboard. Since a new motherboard counts as a “new device” to windows will I need a new key? I will be reusing my old ssd but the windows key is OEM. 

When you got the computer did u install windows yourself?

[Zeorth]

6 hours ago, charbel1011 said:

When you got the computer did u install windows yourself?

Yes 

[charbel1011]

9 hours ago, OreoPandas said:

Yes 

Okay. So your serial key is connected yo your microsoft account. It should.

[Donut417]

On 12/28/2018 at 9:54 AM, charbel1011 said:

Okay. So your serial key is connected yo your microsoft account. It should.

While thats true the OP bought an OEM key, these are generally non transferable between computers. A New motherboard in Microsoft's eyes is a new computer. If the OP had a retail key it would not be an issue. HOWEVER, @OreoPandas in some cases it will activate just fine. Some people have even called Microsoft with OEM keys and gotten a new key for free. It just depends on how nice the employee is being that day. Personally if it were me, Id try using the existing key you have and see what happens. The worst case, you need a new key and you can insert a new key in to an existing Windows installation, so Its not like you have to reinstall.