How can I backup my Windows 10 license?

[Koko Pineda]

How can I backup my Windows 10 license? I am planning on replacing my HDD because it's almost full. Would it be possible if I can get the key to work on x64? By the way, I am running x86. I am planning to upgrade my memory as well.

A big thanks!

 

[xandros9]

If you already have a key on hand, you can use that. Worst case, you may be able to retrieve the key using a tool.

Keys do NOT distinguish between 32-bit and 64-bit installs. You just need to make sure you have 64-bit install media.

 

[RumoredNow]

Maybe this will help: How to re-activate Windows 10 after a hardware change | Windows Central

 

[UniZebra]

It gets restored after the first update so you don't have to do anything

of course you have to use the same Microsoft account you're using now

 

[orlbuckeye]

Windows 10 only uses a key if you bought the full package (retail version). If you upgraded then it uses Digital Entitlement. Retail full package come with 32 and 64 bit which use the same key. OEM Windows 32 bit and 64 bit are different product and wouldn't have the same key. Going from 32 to 64 bit can't be upgraded and requires a new install.

 

[nontheistzero]

Is this on a laptop? You probably have a recovery partition that contains everything you need.

 

[AndyCalling]

Windows 10 only uses a key if you bought the full package (retail version). If you upgraded then it uses Digital Entitlement. Retail full package come with 32 and 64 bit which use the same key. OEM Windows 32 bit and 64 bit are different product and wouldn't have the same key. Going from 32 to 64 bit can't be upgraded and requires a new install.

Weirdly, this is not always a reliable rule. I know, odd, but it isn't. For example, I have a retail copy of W10Pro that I upgraded from my retail copy of W8.1pro (which was an upgrade to W7 which was retail) so I have a retail licence and can transfer this version between builds (as I have done). That is registere4d with a digital entitlement.

I also have a Stick PC that came with W10 pre-installed, so an OEM version. This cannot be transferred between PCs of course. Interestingly, it is registered with a key and not a digital entitlement.

So, there appears to be no firm rule as to what type of Windows licence you will get. A retail copy can be digital entitlement, and an OEM copy linked to a PC can be key code. The only thing you can be sure of is that a retail copy is transferable between devices and an OEM copy (pre-installed or from OEM discs) is not so transferable, even if you buy an upgrade to pro or some such. Full retail, or you're stuck.

This is why it is rarely useful to upgrade an OEM copy of Win Home to Pro. Better to buy full Win Pro retail box so you can transfer it to your next PC. Larger initial outlay, but saves money as it doesn't die with your old laptop.

 

[orlbuckeye]

Digital entitlement is only used for upgrades from Windows 7 and 8.1 (OEM or Retail). If you buy the retail or OEM versions of Windows it will come with a key. If OEM installs Windows 10 it's the same a license type as Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. If you purchase Windows 10 it is the full install and not upgrade package is available (yet and hasn't been announced). The clean install ISO is still free from MS as you just enter the Windows 7 or 8.1 key and it will create the Digital Entitlement. Something new with the anniversary update is Digital Entitlement is linked to your MS account in case you change some hardware other than a motherboard or if you have gone from Win 10 Home to Pro after your digital entitlement was created.

In other word because when you upgrade to Windows there is a transfer of the license (you don't purchase another license). Doing the upgrade Windows 7 or 8.1 have to be install or their key entered to create digital entitlement. If you aren't upgrading your purchasing a new license not transferring it.

 

[henocksandy]

Try getting the product key. It would be safer if you have the key incase anything goes wrong.