New Build and Windows

Wyatthaplo · November 13, 2019

Hi I am doing a new build in a couple weeks and want to move my windows over to the new system. Im pretty sure i have a retail windows license but im not quite sure how to go about moving it from a HDD on current system to an M.2 Drive on the new system.

I'm thinking, from my limited knowledge and google skills, that the best way would be to to install the HDD with windows on the new system and boot from that then use software to clone the OS install onto the M.2. Would this be the easiest way to do it?

SpookyCitrus · November 13, 2019

You can clone the Windows Install to the new drive fairly painlessly using Macrium or Aoemi, however if building a new computer you will have to purchase another license. Windows Activation locks to your Motherboard, so unless you're using your old Motherboard in the new system it won't have a license and you will need to re-activate it with a new one.

LIGISTX · November 13, 2019

You can tie your license to your Microsoft account, sign in on the new machine, and there is a way (I have never done it) to transfer that license to the new machine. Your old one will no longer be licensed at that point. Google should point you in the right direction.

Or, you could clone your old drive. But I would recommend starting fresh if you can.