New MB, RAM with Win10, upgraded to Win11, not activated

Question

Installed new motherboard and RAM. Got computer to boot to Windows 10, then did the free upgrade to Windows 11. Saw the notification that Win11 wasn't activated, so entered my Win10 product key. MS activation told me the key was invalid. Does this mean I need to purchase Win11 to activate?

Answer 1

Hello

Thank you for posting in Q&A forum.

Steps to Reactivate Windows 11 After Hardware Change

1. Link Your Microsoft Account:

• Ensure your Microsoft account is linked to your Windows installation.

Go to Settings > System > Activation and check if it says, "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account."

2. Run the Activation Troubleshooter:

• Go to Settings > System > Activation and select Troubleshoot. This can help resolve common activation issues.

• Follow the prompts and select I changed hardware on this device recently if prompted.

3. Re-enter Your Product Key:

• Go to Settings > System > Activation > Change product key and enter your Windows 10 product key again.

4. Check License Type:

• If your Windows 10 license is an OEM license (pre-installed by the manufacturer), it might not transfer to a new motherboard. Retail licenses, however, can be transferred.

• To check your license type, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type:

slmgr /dlv

This will show you the license type.

Reference： 

Reactivating Windows after a hardware change - Microsoft Support

I hope the information above is helpful.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to let us know.

Best Regards,

Daisy Zhou

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