In a world where technology is an essential part of our lives, unforeseen events can occur – computers can malfunction or become unbootable. In such instances, the ability to retrieve your Windows license becomes vital. This guide emphasizes the significance of transferring your Windows license from an inoperable PC and enables you to do so effortlessly.

Transfer Windows 10 Licence from Dead PC

Why bother salvaging the Windows license when faced with a disaster that renders your computer unusable? The explanation is straightforward: your Windows license is not merely a key; it serves as your access point to the operating system and its features. By relocating it, you guarantee the continuous use of your system without undue obstacles. Adhere to this comprehensive guide to assist you in retrieving your license and, subsequently, restoring your peace of mind.

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Duration: 5 minutes
Supported OS: Windows 10, Windows 11, and older Windows systems
Tools:
  1. 1. Dead PC
  2. 2. A screwdriver
  3. 3. A new healthy computer
  4. 4. SATA data connection cable (optional)
Who Needs It: All levels of Windows users

If your computer dies or breaks or becomes suddenly unbootable, as long as the OS disk isn't completely dead, you still have a chance to retrieve Windows licenses, installed programs, and even data.

While following the instructions in this tutorial, keep in mind that the process may take some time, so it's important to be patient and give it ample time to complete. Let's dive into this five-minute read to learn the detailed steps for removing a Windows 10 hard drive from a non-functional PC and connecting it to a new computer.

1. Remove the Windows 10 hard drive from the non-functional PC and connect it to a new computer.

Before commencing, please remember to exercise caution throughout this procedure. Make sure you have all the required tools, such as a Phillips screwdriver, an antistatic wrist strap (if accessible), and a SATA-to-USB adapter or a compatible spare SATA port on your new computer. Prior to opening the case of the old computer, confirm that both the non-functional PC and the new one are powered off.

Follow these steps:

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  • Locate the rectangular hard drive inside the case.
  • Carefully remove the SATA cables attached to it.

Remove old hard drive from dead computer

    Connect to a new computer, depending on the available options:

1. SATA-to-USB Adapter: Connect the SATA-to-USB adapter to the drive's SATA port, and plug the USB end into a USB port on your new computer.

2. Spare SATA Port: Attach the SATA data and power cables to the hard drive, then connect it to an empty SATA port on your new motherboard.

Connect to new pc

    < li > Turn on your new computer. < /li > < li > Once recognized, your hard drive's contents will be accessible through File Explorer. < /li >

Remember, handling hardware components necessitates caution and meticulousness. If you require further clarification on any step, seek guidance from someone with experience in this field. These processes will assist you in retrieving crucial data from a malfunctioning Windows 10 computer. Proceed to the subsequent section of this guide, where we will outline the data recovery process in detail.

2: Transferring the Windows 10 License to Your New PC

Now that you've successfully connected the hard drive from your crashed Windows 10 PC to your new computer, moving the Windows 10 license from the old disk to the new system is crucial. To accomplish this, you'll need a reliable PC data transfer software. One notable solution is Todo PCTrans Professional, which features its remarkable Data Rescue function, specifically designed to effortlessly rescue and transfer all data from the non-functional PC's hard drive.

Todo PCTrans is a user-friendly and robust tool for data migration and transfer between computers. Its Data Rescue function simplifies the process by allowing you to salvage and transfer not only your Windows 10 license but also installed programs and other crucial data from the hard drive of your non-functional computer.

Download this software and give it a try!

Step 1. Launch and run Todo PCTrans on the computer, and select "Product Key" from the left panel.

product key 1

Step 2. Click "Scan," and you can view the product keys for Windows, Adobe, and Office. Save the key to the chosen location or opt to "Copy" for direct use.

product key 2

Once you've retrieved the Windows license from the dead PC's hard drive, save and back up the product key to a local drive on your new computer. You can then use that key to activate Windows 10, and reactivate it if you reinstall Windows 10 on the old computer or a new one.

Bonus Tips to Utilize the Hard Drive from a Dead Computer on a New PC

Congratulations on successfully retrieving your data and Windows 10 license from your old, non-functional PC! Now that your new computer's hard drive is operational, here are some useful tips to help you maximize its potential.

1. Clean Up Hard Drive Data

Before actively using the hard drive, take some time to clean up unnecessary and redundant files. Delete temporary files, old downloads, and any files you no longer need. This will help free up space and make your disk more efficient.

Read more: How to Delete Temp Files.

2. Wipe the Disk if Necessary

Consider deleting the unusable data on your system. This is important if you want to keep your system secure and ensure that no traces of previous data remain.

Read also: How to Completely Wipe Hard Drive.

3. Re-partition the Disk

When repurposing a hard drive, it's advisable to re-partition it based on your new requirements. You can create distinct partitions for various types of data, like one for documents, another for media files, and so forth. This facilitates better organization and retrieval of data.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Repartition a Hard Drive in Windows 10/11.

4. Transfer Data and Use the Drive as a Data Disk

If your new computer already has its own primary drive for the operating system, you can use the rescued hard drive as an additional data disk. Transfer files, documents, photos, and videos to this drive to free up space on your main drive and keep your data organized.

5. Run Disk Checks

Conduct routine disk checks to ensure the well-being of the hard drive. Windows has integrated utilities that can scan and rectify errors on the drive. Maintaining the hard drive's health will enhance its longevity and reliability.

6. Backup Storage

Use the recovered hard drive as a backup storage solution. Frequently back up crucial files and documents from your primary system to this drive. You can employ built-in Windows backup utilities or third-party software to automate this process, ensuring your data is secure in case of any problems with your main drive.

By adhering to these additional tips, you can guarantee that the hard drive from your old, non-functional PC serves a useful purpose in your new computer setup. Whether for data storage or experimentation, this repurposed hardware can enhance your computing experience in numerous ways.

Conclusion

In the realm of technology, unforeseen challenges can emerge, disrupting the seamless flow of our digital existence. Computers may malfunction, systems can collapse, and precious data can appear to be irretrievably lost. Nevertheless, a path to recovery exists, a voyage illuminated by knowledge and navigated with the appropriate tools.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, remember that your data, programs, and Windows license can be salvaged. This realization empowers you to seize control, transforming the challenge into an opportunity for recovery and reconstruction.

During this digital rescue mission, options like tools Todo PCTrans, with its Data Rescue feature, simplify transferring your Windows 10 license and other essential data from your dead PC's disk to your new computer.

These tools simplify the complex data transfer process, providing a lifeline to your valuable information, regardless of the situation.

As you navigate this journey, embrace the calm assurance that there is a way forward. Your digital world is not lost; it's waiting to be reclaimed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Transferring Your Windows 10 License from a Defective Computer

Checkout these common questions that might help you resolve any impending issue related to this problem:

< b > 1. Can I transfer my Windows 10 license to a new computer using my Microsoft Account? < /b >

To transfer your Windows 10 license to a new computer using a Microsoft Account, follow these steps:

1. Turn Off the License on the Old Computer:

Before you transfer, make sure to turn off your license on your old computer. This helps ensure a smooth process. Simply go to "Settings," then "Update & Security," and click "Activation." Following that, select "Troubleshoot" and indicate that you've changed your device. Follow the steps provided to deactivate the license.

2. Install License on New Computer:

After you've removed the license from your old computer, do the following on your new one:

    Log in using your Microsoft Account (the one associated with your license.
    Navigate to "Settings," then "Update & Security," and finally "Activation."
  • Select "Add an account" and sign in using your Microsoft Account.
    Your new PC should now have your Windows 10 license.

Following these steps helps you move your license and keeps things right with Microsoft.

3. Can I transfer my Windows license from a laptop to a desktop computer?

Certainly, if you have a retail license, you can easily transfer it from a laptop to a desktop computer. However, if it's an OEM license, which is typically tied to the original hardware, it's generally not allowed.

4. How can I obtain my Windows 10 license key?

No more gazing at your screen for the answer! Here's an effortless method:

1. Press "Win + X" and choose "Windows PowerShell (Admin)".

Type this in: 'wmic path software licensing service get OA3xOriginalProductKey', and hit "Enter".

3. Your Windows 10 license key appears right there.

Remember, these responses are like your friendly GPS. If you need more specific guidance or encounter any issues, feel free to consult our handy guide or ask us directly. Your Windows 10 license doesn't have to be a mystery – we're here to assist you in understanding it!