Type slmgr /upk and press Enter. This uninstalls the product key.
đŸ’¡ If your old computer is broken and won't turn on, skip to the Microsoft Account method below. Step 2: Reactivate on the New Computer windows license transfer
If your motherboard fails and is replaced under warranty with an identical model, Microsoft will usually reactivate automatically. If you replace it with a different model (e.g., upgrade to a newer board), you’ve effectively built a new PC – OEM license is invalid. Type slmgr /upk and press Enter
If you are building your own PC, spend the extra money on a "Retail" or "FPP" (Full Packaged Product) key. Treat it like a physical asset. If you are buying a laptop, accept that the Windows license is a sunk cost that you will likely never be able to transfer. Microsoft has engineered the process to be just difficult enough to discourage transfers without technically prohibiting them for the right class of buyer. Step 2: Reactivate on the New Computer If