How to Transfer a Windows 10 OEM License to Another Computer

Transferring a Windows 10 OEM license to another computer is a common task for many users, but it can be challenging due to the nature of OEM licenses. In this article, we will explore the conditions and steps necessary for transferring a Windows 10 OEM license, including the limitations and scenarios where it is allowed.

Understanding Windows 10 Licensing

Windows 10 licensing can be either OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or retail. OEM licenses are pre-installed by the manufacturer and are tied to the specific hardware they were sold with. On the other hand, retail licenses can be purchased separately and are more flexible regarding hardware changes.

OEM License Restrictions

OEM License Restrictions: An OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer license is typically pre-installed by the manufacturer and is tied to the specific hardware it was activated on. This means it cannot be transferred to a different computer.

Retail Licenses

Retail Licenses: If you have a retail version of Windows 10, it can be transferred to another computer. Here, you would need to deactivate the license on the original machine and then activate it on the new one. The process involves a few steps:

Deactivate the original license: On the original computer: Go to Settings Update Security Activation Select Change product key Enter the command in Command Prompt (run as administrator) to uninstall the product key: Run slmgr.vbs /upk

Activation on New Computer

On the new computer: Go to Settings Update Security Activation Select Change product key Enter your product key to activate Windows 10

Scenarios for License Transfer

There are some scenarios where Microsoft allows for license transfer. For example, if the original hardware is no longer functional or if you are replacing a computer's motherboard. However, these cases are not common and may require support from Microsoft.

Steps to Transfer a Windows 10 OEM License

Check if your OEM license is transferable: Look for a license sticker on the original computer or check the documentation that came with the computer. If your license is transferable, follow these steps: Deactivate the license on the original computer: On the original computer: Go to Settings Update Security Activation Select Change product key Enter the command in Command Prompt (run as administrator) to uninstall the product key: Run slmgr.vbs /upk Install Windows 10 on the new computer: You will need to purchase a new copy of Windows 10 or use an existing product key. Download Windows 10 from the Microsoft website and create a bootable USB drive to install it on the new computer. Activate the license on the new computer: On the new computer: Go to Settings Update Security Activation Select Change product key Enter your product key to activate Windows 10

Contact Microsoft Support

If you have any issues with transferring the license or are unsure about the process, you can contact Microsoft support for assistance. Note that transferring an OEM license to a new computer may violate the terms of the license agreement. Therefore, it is important to check the license terms before attempting to transfer the license.

Conclusion

In summary, transferring a Windows 10 OEM license to another computer is generally not allowed, as OEM licenses are tied to specific hardware. However, it is possible to transfer a retail license to another machine. Always ensure you understand the licensing terms and conditions before attempting any transfer.