I recently upgraded my motherboard and processor to Windows 11 from an i6700k Z-170 to an i13500k B760M. During this process, I lost my Windows license. Previously, when I was using Windows 10, I received a message saying recent hardware changes were detected, but Microsoft support couldn't help because Windows 10 is no longer supported. Now that I've upgraded to Windows 11, I am getting an error that says no product key was found. When I contacted support, they claimed there is no license associated with my account, even though I can still see my old device on the list. I have a retail license that I got originally from a free upgrade from Windows 7. However, I was told that Windows 7 upgrades are no longer valid, and I need to purchase a new license. I feel cheated by Microsoft. Is there any way I can resolve this issue without having to buy an entirely new license?
5 Answers
I had a similar experience when I swapped my motherboard a while back. I checked with Microsoft support before the change, and they assured me I'd be fine, but after the upgrade, they just couldn’t find my license. I ended up having to buy a new one. It's frustrating because I followed all the guidelines.
I’m surprised you managed to reach Microsoft support at all. It seems like they’re hit or miss these days with assistance.
It's frustrating, but Microsoft now views it as a completely new computer once you change your motherboard. The flexibility of transferring licenses just doesn't seem to apply anymore like it used to.
It sounds like you're in a tough spot. The free Windows 10 upgrade from Windows 7 was only meant to apply to the original hardware. If you change your motherboard, Microsoft treats it like a completely new machine, which means you usually need a new license for Windows 11. Unfortunately, that promo period is no longer active, so they won't extend it to your new hardware.
Have you tried inputting your retail key again in the activation settings? Sometimes re-entering it can resolve the issue, depending on how Microsoft has updated their servers.
I’ve tried that, but now my old retail key from Windows 7 isn't working since the servers were updated. I just want to get my digital Windows 10 activation back, but all they focus on is the original key.
So, just to clarify, once you upgrade to Windows 10 using a Windows 7 license, that key is linked to the original hardware? If that’s true, then I guess getting a new license might be the only way forward.