Even if the original laptop, PC or Server is no longer in use, or if the software is removed from the original hardware, OEM licenses are tied to the device on which the software is first installed.
Is OEM Windows tied to motherboard?
According to Microsoft, OEM Windows is tied to the motherboard you install on. You can only re-use OEM Windows if your motherboard dies.
What is OEM tied to?
OEM license is tied to the whole system and not only motherboard or disk.
How does OEM Windows work?
This means that when you purchased your computer your computer manufacturer put on the OEM copy of Windows 10. Via Microsoft licensing rights, OEM registers to the motherboard and when you change that piece of hardware you need to purchase a new retail version of Microsoft Windows 10.
Are Windows licenses tied to hardware?
If you make significant hardware changes on your device, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows will no longer find a license that matches your device, and you’ll need to reactivate Windows to get it up and running. To activate Windows, you’ll need either a digital license or a product key.
