How to Transfer Your Windows License to a New PC

One of the most common questions we receive is: "Can I move my Windows license to a new computer?" The answer depends on what type of license you have. This guide explains the rules and the exact steps to deactivate and reactivate on a new machine.

License Types and Transfer Rights

There are three common Windows license types, and they have different transfer rules:

• Retail license — fully transferable. You can deactivate on the old PC and activate on a new one. This is the type sold here at Hermanos License.
• OEM license — tied to the original device it was activated on. OEM licenses (typically pre-installed on branded PCs from Dell, HP, Lenovo) cannot be legally transferred to a different device.
• Volume license — governed by your organisation's agreement. Generally transferable within the organisation but not to personal devices.

Step 1: Deactivate on the Old PC

For Windows 10/11 retail licenses, there is no built-in "deactivate" button in the UI. Instead, the license is deactivated by unlinking it from the hardware signature. Open an elevated command prompt (right-click Start → Windows Terminal (Admin)) and run:

slmgr.vbs /upk

This uninstalls the product key from the current machine. Follow with:

slmgr.vbs /cpky

This removes the key from the Windows Registry (important for security — prevents someone from reading the key from a discarded machine).

Step 2: Activate on the New PC

On your new computer, open Settings → System → Activation → Change product key and enter your key. Alternatively, if you linked the license to your Microsoft account before deactivation, you may be able to use Troubleshoot → I changed hardware on this device recently to trigger an account-based reactivation without re-entering the key.

If Activation Fails After Transfer

Microsoft's activation servers track hardware signatures. If the system detects that your key has been used on too many different machines in a short period, online activation may be blocked. In this case, use phone activation:

1. Run slui.exe 4 to open the telephone activation wizard
2. Select your country
3. Call the displayed Microsoft number and provide the installation ID shown on screen
4. A representative or automated system will give you a confirmation ID to complete activation

Phone activation is available 24/7 in most regions and almost always succeeds for genuine retail licenses.