Swap Motherboards with OEM Windows 7

AtomicToaster · #1 17-06-13, 01:16 AM

Hey guys not sure if there's another forum for this but I need help. The mother board I have is getting old and doesnt have SATA III or SLI support. Im looking to put in a SSD and two new graphics cards but I dont have an extra 120 to purchase windows because the version I have is OEM I cant swap the motherboards. I was wondering if there was a way around it any software to keep the copy valid after the switch. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks!

jamesriley94 · #2 17-06-13, 01:20 AM

I've never had any issues trying to reinstall OEM versions tbh.

Install Windows from a memory stick with the full version, rather than an OEM disk, and use the same serial. Never not worked for me.

You might want to deactivate the activated one before wiping it - although again, not doing this has never been an issue for me.

MacLeod · #3 17-06-13, 02:06 AM

Technically youre not supposed to. An OEM copy of Windows is tied to the original motherboard its installed on. You can always try and if it doesnt validate, you can call Microsoft and plead your case that youre replacing a shoddy motherboard and they may let you reactivate. There are several stories on line of people just reinstalling it and putting in the old key when swapping motherboards and it validated with no problem so I dunno. Like I said, you can always try. If it works great. If it doesnt, youll have to buy a new OEM copy. Theyre running around $90 right now.

kilobravo · #4 17-06-13, 02:44 AM

The oem key will activate 3 times,after that you can do the "activate by phone" thing.