Will Switching to Linux Erase My Windows 11 OEM License?
Asked by
CuriousExplorer99
I recently got my first Acer laptop with Windows 11 Home OEM already installed and activated. I'm planning to wipe the SSD and install Linux Mint because I want a system that uses fewer resources. My biggest worry is about the OEM license; I've read that the OEM key is stored in the motherboard's UEFI (specifically in the MSDM table). Is it true that if I want to switch back to Windows later, I can just select 'I don't have a product key' during installation and it will automatically activate once I connect to the internet? I want to confirm that installing Linux won't erase or overwrite this key stored in the motherboard. Thanks for any insights!
Answers
Don’t worry, the license is stored in the UEFI, and it will stay there even after you switch to Linux.
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I installed Linux on my laptop without ever running Windows. Later, when I went back to Windows, it activated right away.
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Exactly! The installer will pick up the key without asking for it, provided it’s in the UEFI. You should have no issues.
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Yes, your Windows license will remain intact. If you’re concerned, consider backing it up before wiping your current install, just to be safe.
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