Only retail licenses can be transferred to a new computer. 1. Identify your license type—OEM licenses are tied to the original motherboard and non-transferable, while retail licenses can be moved. 2. Back up data on the old PC before proceeding. 3. Sign in with a Microsoft account on the old PC to link the license. 4. Deactivate the license by running "slmgr.vbs /upk" in Command Prompt as Admin or by changing the product key to a dummy one. 5. Install Windows 11 on the new PC using a USB installer. 6. Enter your retail product key during setup or in Settings > System > Activation. 7. Sign in with the same Microsoft account to ensure smooth activation. Transferring an OEM license or using one key on multiple PCs violates Microsoft’s terms. If activation fails, contact Microsoft Support for assistance. Always verify your license type before attempting a transfer.

Transferring a Windows 11 license to a new computer is possible in certain situations, but it depends heavily on the type of license you have. Here’s what you need to know and the steps to follow.

? First: Know Your License Type

Not all Windows licenses can be transferred. There are three main types:

• OEM License (Original Equipment Manufacturer)

  
  • Comes pre-installed on a new PC (e.g., from Dell, HP, Lenovo).
  • Tied to the original motherboard and cannot be transferred to another computer.
  • This is the most common type on prebuilt systems.

• Retail License

  • Purchased separately (e.g., from Microsoft Store or a retailer).
  • Can be transferred to a new computer, but only one at a time.
  • You must deactivate it on the old device first.

• Volume License

  
  • Used by businesses with Microsoft licensing agreements.
  • Managed through a KMS or MAK key system.
  • Transfer rules depend on the organization's policy.

? Only retail licenses are officially transferable. If you're unsure, check your purchase receipt or how Windows was activated.

? How to Transfer a Retail Windows 11 License

If you have a retail license, follow these steps:

1. Back up your data on the old PC
   Before removing the license, ensure all personal files are saved. You may need to reinstall Windows later.

2. Sign in with a Microsoft Account (Recommended)

   • Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info
   • Make sure you're signed in with a Microsoft account (not a local account).
   • This links your license to your Microsoft account, making reactivation easier.

3. Deactivate Windows on the Old PC
   While Windows doesn’t have a "deactivate" button, you can do this by:

   • Going to Settings > System > Activation
   • Click "Change product key" and enter a dummy key (e.g., random characters).
   • This forces Windows to deactivate and frees the license.

   ?? Or simply uninstall the key:

   • Open Command Prompt as Admin
   • Run:

     slmgr.vbs /upk

   • This uninstalls the product key and tells Microsoft the license is no longer in use.

4. Install Windows 11 on the New PC

   • Use a USB installer or download from Microsoft.
   • During setup or after installation, go to:
     Settings > System > Activation > Change product key

5. Enter Your Retail Key

   • Input the same product key from your old PC.
   • If linked to your Microsoft account, Windows may activate automatically.

6. Sign in with the Same Microsoft Account

   • Ensures activation is smooth and the license is recognized.

? What Doesn’t Work

• You can’t transfer an OEM license, even if you bought the PC yourself.
• Using the same key on two PCs at once violates Microsoft’s terms.
• Upgrading hardware too much on one PC (e.g., new motherboard) may trigger reactivation issues—even with retail.

? Tips for Success

• Keep your product key safe. If it came with a sticker or email, save it.
• Use a Microsoft account to link your license—this simplifies transfers.
• If activation fails, call Microsoft Support. They can often help verify and transfer a retail license.

Bottom line:
Only retail licenses can be moved. OEM licenses stay with the original machine. If you’re building a new PC or replacing an old one, double-check your license type first.

Basically, if you bought Windows separately, you’re likely good to go. If it came with your laptop, you’ll probably need a new license.

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