Re-installing Windows 10...

[hack_tc]

Hey guys, I just got a new samsung evo ssd and was wanting to do a fresh install of windows 10, putting the OS on the new drive if possible. Its currently on an old ocz ssd drive.

I had windows 7 and did the free windows 10 upgrade, but i didnt do a fresh install.

Is there a way I can start fresh with windows 10 without having the disc or anything?


My pc: (if it matters)

i5 3570k, asrock extreme4 z77, 16gb ddr3, r9 390, corsair ax850 psu

 

[DAPUNISHER]

Download the media creation tool https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

Also go to the using the MCT on that page and follow the directions for performing a clean installation of Windows 10 using USB or DVD. Since you already upgraded you can hit the skip button on the license key page during install, and it will auto activate later.

 

[hack_tc]

Thanks. Also, I was looking at getting an old laga 1155 itx mobo and swapping to an itx case. Is Windows 10 os license linked to my current mobo, where I could only replace it with the same one I already have? Or is it completely safe now to swap mobos if i want to?

 

[DAPUNISHER]

Install 10 clean again and follow the advice here http://www.howtogeek.com/226510/how-to-use-your-free-windows-10-license-after-changing-your-pc%E2%80%99s-hardware/

However, replacing your computer’s motherboard or CPU will likely be so big a change that it prevents the PC from automatically activating. Windows 10 will see it as a different hardware configuration, one which isn’t allowed to have the free upgrade.

If you run into this problem, you should just be able to clean-install Windows 10 normally. Skip both prompts when you’re asked to enter a product key. After it installs, it will attempt to activate itself with Microsoft and won’t automatically activate. It will be considered non-genuine until you activate it. The activation screen will prompt you to purchase a new license from the Windows Store.

According to Gabriel Aul, Vice President of Engineering for the Windows & Devices group at Microsoft, you can then contact support from within Windows 10, explain the situation, and they’ll activate Windows 10 for you:

Edit- evidently you cannot move the free 10 copy even with retail 7 or 8 flavors. It looks like you would need to make the phone call regardless.

And there is no guarantee they will approve the activation after swapping boards. On a positive note, I had a board die a few years back, and replaced it with a different brand and chipset. It had OEM windows 7 on it. I had to call, and after explaining why I swapped boards, the rep gave me the activation code.

 

[hack_tc]

Ok, great. Thanks for all the help!