Windows activation after changing the processor

[Skye_Elt]

Hi all,

I recently changed the processor in my laptop after it got damaged. Now the windows license is missing, does anyone know how to fix that?

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

Can you please explain how you changed the processor when they are soldered to the motherboard?

Did you mean to write that you changed the motherboard?

If so, did you change the motherboard with one that comes with a Windows product key encrypted in the BIOS?

The motherboard part numbers are listed in chapter 3 and the ones that come with Windows end in -601 and the ones that come with no product key end in -001.

HP Spectre x360 Convertible PCModel numbers: 13-w000 – 13-w099Model numbers: 13-ac000 – 13-ac099 Mai...

If the replacement motherboard has a Windows product key, you need to change the existing product key from the old motherboard that is still left on the hard drive to the new one.

To do that, install the free Showkey Plus app from the Microsoft store, and it will show you the installed key and the Windows OEM key that is encrypted in the new motherboard's BIOS.

ShowKeyPlus - Microsoft Store Apps

Change the installed product key to the OEM product key in the PC settings menu and W10 should activate.

How to change the product key on Windows 10 | Windows Central

If you installed a motherboard with no product key unfortunately you will have to buy a new Windows 10 license and product key from Microsoft.

[Skye_Elt]

Thanks! 

That was helpful. I'll double check and see what I can do!

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.