With Windows 10 you get a digital license where your activation information is stored on Microsoft servers. As soon as you do a clean install, it would automatically activate provided you install the same version as was before. If you are prompted for a key, skip entering the same.
This begs the query “How does Windows licensing work?”
Along the way, Bott brings up several interesting issues related to how Windows licensing works. It is similar to a VIN number on a car: it stays the same, even if you replace the various components of the device.
How windows 10 digital license works?
Windows 10 has a new activation method called digital license. This is not the 25- character product key you are used to seeing. This digital license allows you to skip entering the product key, the activation happens automatically in many cases.
Microsoft distributes licenses of Windows 10 in many channels with different rules, but if you’re a regular user, usually, you can only obtain a license through the Retail or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) channel.
If so, then Microsoft makes an internal note, updates the status of your unique hash, and assigns a Windows 10 license certificate to it.
How to activate Windows 10 with a digital license?
The digital license is linked to your Microsoft account. Note: You will first need to check if your Windows 10 is linked to your Microsoft account.
What happens if I don’t link my Windows 10 digital license?
If you don’t link your digital license, you may have issues when you reactivate Windows 10 unless you have a product key to hand. We’re going to show you how to link and restore your key so you don’t have to worry about that.
Can I transfer my Windows 10 Pro License to a new computer?
If you upgraded to Windows 10 Pro from Windows 10 Home purchasing the upgrade through the Microsoft Store, then you can transfer the license to a new computer because the product key will be converted into a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.
What is the “digital license” activation method?
Windows 10 will use the “digital license” (digital entitlement) activation method, if one of the following is true: You’re upgrading a genuine copy of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 for free.
Digital license is an activation method in Windows 10 that doesn’t require a product key. We suggest using the Activation troubleshooter and try activating Windows 10 again. For your reference, check this article on how to use the Activation troubleshooter.