I recently built a new PC and I'm trying to activate Windows 11 Home. My old PC had a digital license linked to my Microsoft account, but when I set up my new PC with the same account, it's not activating. I'm wondering if I'm misunderstanding something about how the digital license works with my Microsoft account. I even made sure to log out of my account on my old PC, so it's the only device using my Microsoft account now. What am I missing?
3 Answers
Remember, Windows licenses are tied to the hardware they were first activated on. So unless you have a retail version of Windows, you'll need to buy a new license for your new PC setup. It’s a common mix-up!
If your old PC had an OEM license (like most HP computers do), it can't be transferred to a new machine. Only retail licenses can be moved to a new PC after disassociating them from the old one. You should check your license type and if it's OEM, unfortunately, you'll need to purchase a new license for your new build.
Definitely check if your previous system used an OEM version. In that case, you’d need a new license for the build. Just a heads up, it might be worth looking into some sales or deals for Windows licenses if you need one.
Ah, so that explains it! I thought I could just link it to my new PC. Thanks for clarifying!