Do I have to buy the license for Windows 10 if I bought it for Windows 7?

[Windows Central Question]

Windows 10 upgrade and new computer components

Hi there!

I have been planning on upgrading some of my computers components for some time. Now that Windows 7 is offering the upgrade to Win10 I think it's time but first I have to get a clarification on one thing.

So, I have a licensed Windows 7 on my computer now and if I upgrade, let's say my hard drive, I have to buy a new license (right...?). Will this be the case for Windows 10 also? Also as a follow up: what happens if I reserve the Windows 10 upgrade and before installing the OS, I change my computers components (hard drive etc.)?

I'm just trying to save some of my summer job money and since I am a student, I don't have a lot of extra money to be thrown around.

Thanks in advance!

 

[cabsco]

Re: Windows 10 upgrade and new computer components

Changing Hard Drives does not necessary affect or temper with Windows 10 update as long as your system meets the minimum requirement. You can check Microsoft official website to view minimum requirement of installing Windows 10.

From there you'll know the specific component you can swap on your system without hindering your reserved Windows 10 update. Cheers!

 

[Roland Schlangen]

Re: Windows 10 upgrade and new computer components

Installing a new harddrive will not de-activate your license. If you swap the motherboard or your processer then it does. But in case you have a de-activated license you can always activate it again by the phone activation procedure.
This also applies for your second question.

 

[Blacklac]

Re: Windows 10 upgrade and new computer components

You can transfer your license to new hardware, anyways, as long as you have a retail copy.

Posted via the Windows Central App for Android

 

[Coskindo]

Re: Windows 10 upgrade and new computer components

Thanks for the responses.

I should have been more clear about my plans. I am thinking about getting a new processor, an SSD hard drive and maybe a new motherboard (if i absolutely have to).

Installing a new harddrive will not de-activate your license.

My older Win7 license actually did deactivate after getting a second HDD hard drive. Then again, that was an OEM license...

So here's what I'll do. I'll reserve the upgrade, install Win10 and after making sure I'm all set, I'll change the components. I sure hope this works. Thanks again for the replies!

 

[Roland Schlangen]

Re: Windows 10 upgrade and new computer components

And in case Windows 10 will not activate after upgrading your CPU, Motherboard and SSD, you can always try the phone activation option.

 

[Coskindo]

Re: Windows 10 upgrade and new computer components

I'll try and remember that. Thanks again :smile: