Windows 7 oem and new motherboard?

paulstung · 05 Feb 2013

I'm upgrading my motherboard next week,due to a few problems.Am I right in thinking as I have the oem version of W7,I will either have to phone Microsoft , or buy a new copy ? Fro what I can gather W7 oem , is basically tied to the pc it was originally loaded onto .
If so is there any way around it ? If I was to phone Microsoft , how would it work ,would they just reactivate my product key for a new machine ? I have also heard that they have refused to do this is some cases ,In all likely hood what would the odds on that be ?

Brink · 05 Feb 2013

Hello Paul,

When you call Microsoft to do a phone activation, just let them know that you had to replace your motherboard. Sometimes (usually) they will go ahead and activate the OEM product key on the COA sticker for the new motherboard.

If not, then you might try again with another operator to see if they may. If still not, then you'll need to purchase a new copy of Windows.

paulstung · 05 Feb 2013

Cheers mate I thought as much

Brink · 05 Feb 2013

You're welcome. Please let us know how it went. :)

paulstung · 05 Feb 2013

Will do.Looking at the price I might just buy a copy of W7 .Because by the time I phone India,it will probably be cheaper. lol..

Brink · 05 Feb 2013

Normally, there will be a toll free number to call.

Activate Windows 7 by Phone