Win7 + new pc

HeyLookItsRed · November 27, 2014

I'm building a new pc and I've currently got windows seven ultimate installed on the pc I'm using at the moment. When I build my new one, will I have to buy a new version of windows or can I just plug in my hard drive and boot up with problems?

Any response will be highly appreciated, thanks!

Deli · November 27, 2014

You will need a new licence. One Windows licence works only on one PC. It usually ties to the motherboard. So that means you can change/upgrade CPU, RAM, HDD, etc, but not the motherboard. Changing the motherboard will be considered as a different PC.

LogicalDrm · November 28, 2014

Moving hard drive straight to another isn't usually good choice. You could unintal all mobo drivers and install new drivers on new mobo but this isn't always working. Another problem is that your license is most likely OEM and probably branded too. You can try to deactivate it on current hardware and activate it again on new. You can even try phone activation but if they don't work, you are in situation @Deli said.

kameshss · November 28, 2014

You can use the same Windows license.

But for that you'll have to follow some steps here

Deli · November 28, 2014

You can use the same Windows license.

But for that you'll have to follow some steps here

Microsoft has different policies for transferring licence between PCs in Windows 7 and 8. Windows 8 retail version is just a simple phone reactivation on new PC. However I doubt it can be done on Windows 7.