question about RMA and windows

[Neil123123]

I'm about to send my machine back for RMA and I think there is a good chance the motherboard will need replaced. What will happen to my windows install in this situation? These days it seems it is based on a hardware key, which will presumably become invalid if the motherboard is replaced. Windows came installed by PC Specialist, I don't have any key to reactivate it. I have removed the machine from my microsoft account prior to sending back and created a local account. Can anyone offer advice on anything I need to do before sending it off to ensure I don't lose my windows key/activation? Thanks!

 

[SpyderTracks]

I'm about to send my machine back for RMA and I think there is a good chance the motherboard will need replaced. What will happen to my windows install in this situation? These days it seems it is based on a hardware key, which will presumably become invalid if the motherboard is replaced. Windows came installed by PC Specialist, I don't have any key to reactivate it. I have removed the machine from my microsoft account prior to sending back and created a local account. Can anyone offer advice on anything I need to do before sending it off to ensure I don't lose my windows key/activation? Thanks!

The key is tied to the BIOS, so if they replace the motherboard, they'll just tie a replacement license. It's not something you need to worry about.

BUT, I would still tie your license to your microsoft account anyway, then you don't ever have to worry, just use your microsoft account as windows logon and it's always there no matter what build you're on.

How to link your Windows 10 product key to a Microsoft account

If you're using a local account, use this guide to link your Windows 10 product key to your Microsoft account for easier re-activation.

www.windowscentral.com

 

[Neil123123]

The key is tied to the BIOS, so if they replace the motherboard, they'll just tie a replacement license. It's not something you need to worry about.

BUT, I would still tie your license to your microsoft account anyway, then you don't ever have to worry, just use your microsoft account as windows logon and it's always there no matter what build you're on.

How to link your Windows 10 product key to a Microsoft account

If you're using a local account, use this guide to link your Windows 10 product key to your Microsoft account for easier re-activation.

www.windowscentral.com

Thanks.