windows 10 Windows 10 Question

[Kagetora34]

So I'm planning on updating my system to RYZEN within the next few years and was wondering if Windows 10 had the ability to auto-detect new hardware in the way of new CPU, Motherboard and memory or if a fresh Windows 10 install would be required. I'm currently using Windows 10 via the free upgrade we all got last year so if a fresh install would be needed, then I'd more than likely need to buy a new copy of Windows 10. If not then I can drop it and shave a bit off the price tag.

 

Just thought I'd post this question as I am curious just how far Windows can automatically detect in terms of new hardware.

[The Sloth]

yup easily, don't worry. in the worst case scenario download all drivers from the manufacturers website. 

[Kagetora34]

Just now, nerdslayer1 said:

yup easily, don't worry. in the worst case scenario download all drivers from the manufacturers website. 

Cool! So I don't need to buy the Windows 10 CD as long as I plan to reuse my storage drives? Which I do indeed intend to do just that. Thanks for the info.

[wilamu]

Always try to use manufacturer drivers rather than generic. Just because W10 picks up most drivers doesn't necessarily mean they're the best to use.

[wilamu]

Oh and in regard to licensing, if your current license is from the free upgrade when you change your hardware it will require you to buy a new license.

[Kagetora34]

Just now, wilamu said:

Always try to use manufacturer drivers rather than generic. Just because W10 picks up most drivers doesn't necessarily mean they're the best to use.

I do. What I was asking was about the hardware side like if I were to upgrade to the new AMD stuff (which I plan to do at some point) will I need tto buy a new copy of Windows 10 or will it auto detect the new motherboard and CPU?

[Kagetora34]

1 minute ago, wilamu said:

Oh and in regard to licensing, if your current license is from the free upgrade when you change your hardware it will require you to buy a new license.

Ah. That's what I was wanting to know so thanks for the info.

[wilamu]

Just now, Kagetora34 said:

I do. What I was asking was about the hardware side like if I were to upgrade to the new AMD stuff (which I plan to do at some point) will I need tto buy a new copy of Windows 10 or will it auto detect the new motherboard and CPU?

 

Oh you meant storage drives. Sorry I saw drivers and thought you meant the other thing  

 

I just replied about licensing ^^

[Kagetora34]

Just now, wilamu said:

Oh you meant storage drives. Sorry I saw drivers and thought you meant the other thing  

 

I just replied about licensing ^^

Yup, I'll make sure to get a new license when upgrading to RYZEN then. Thanks a bunch guys.

[wilamu]

Just found this link that explains it pretty well albeit a little confusing. It all depends if your current version(pre-Windows 10 update) is OEM or retail. My reply assumes OEM.

 

https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_10-win_upgrade/will-upgrading-motherboard-after-upgrading-to/a26e93c4-6886-4b44-99cf-7bf49ccba6ee?auth=1

 

This is the part you want: 

"What happens if I change my motherboard?

As it pertains to the OEM licenses this will invalidate the Windows 10 upgrade license because it will no longer have a previous base qualifying license which is required for the free upgrade. You will then have to purchase a full retail Windows 10 license. If the base qualifying license (Windows 7 or Windows 8.1) was a full retail version, then yes, you can transfer it."

 

[Kagetora34]

3 minutes ago, wilamu said:

Just found this link that explains it pretty well albeit a little confusing. It all depends if your current version is OEM or retail. My reply assumes OEM.

 

https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_10-win_upgrade/will-upgrading-motherboard-after-upgrading-to/a26e93c4-6886-4b44-99cf-7bf49ccba6ee?auth=1

 

This is the part you want: 

"What happens if I change my motherboard?

As it pertains to the OEM licenses this will invalidate the Windows 10 upgrade license because it will no longer have a previous base qualifying license which is required for the free upgrade. You will then have to purchase a full retail Windows 10 license. If the base qualifying license (Windows 7 or Windows 8.1) was a full retail version, then yes, you can transfer it."

 

I see and I do believe the version of 8.1 I bought was the OEM version as it didn't come in the box but more of an envelope type of thing. So only retail copies carry over it seems.