Does the Windows License Go With The Motherboard or the Case?

I built a very nice system a long time ago (2006) and I installed Windows 7 Ultimate. I even bought the Windows 8 Pro upgrade. Sometime ago the motherboard bit the dust. The motherboard, memory and cpu went to the recyclers and the rest has been gathering dust in the closet ever since.

I am thinking about buying a new motherboard, cpu and memory for this case. I wonder, would the Windows 7 Ultimate license be okay with this? The Windows sticker is on the case - a very nice full server Lian-Li case.

I'm assuming that was a retail.. I don't think they sold any OEM versions of Ultimate... so you can transfer it to any computer you want, so long as you erase the original. Only OEM editions have the restriction.

I'm assuming that was a retail.. I don't think they sold any OEM versions of Ultimate...

I've had at least two computers with OEM 7 Ultimate pre-installed, and several where I have had the OEM System Builder 7 Ultimate. I'm not saying that the OP has OEM, I am just saying it could be possible.

The License is tied to the motherboard (if it is an OEM version). Windows has no way of knowing what case you are using or what may appear on the sticker.

I've had at least two computers with OEM 7 Ultimate pre-installed, and several where I have had the OEM System Builder 7 Ultimate. I'm not saying that the OP has OEM, I am just saying it could be possible.

Well, I stand corrected then.

I'm assuming that was a retail.. I don't think they sold any OEM versions of Ultimate... so you can transfer it to any computer you want, so long as you erase the original. Only OEM editions have the restriction.

Yes it is OEM software. I have the entire original OEM package and tried to look up the license with the link provided by Microsoft on the package; it is no longer a valid link. Does that mean they tore up the contract?

I don't think an OEM license prevents computer repairs. I remember having to call Microsoft when I installed a new hard drive. I guess it depends what someone considers a repair or a whole new computer. I may give it a try and see if I can get it activated. If it does not activate que sara, sara.

The License is tied to the motherboard (if it is an OEM version). Windows has no way of knowing what case you are using or what may appear on the sticker.

I have heard of cases where motherboards have been replaced due to failure. I think it takes a phone call to Microsoft and a bit of begging to activate. I don't do begging well.

I have heard of cases where motherboards have been replaced due to failure. I think it takes a phone call to Microsoft and a bit of begging to activate. I don't do begging well.

If your motherboard is replaced by the manufacturer, then yes. If you just replaced it yourself, then no.

If your motherboard is replaced by the manufacturer, then yes. If you just replaced it yourself, then no.

I am the system builder and I built it for myself. The manufacturer of the motherboard is ASUS and they no longer make or support this great motherboard they produced in 2005 and if they did find one, I would not want it. I think this case will continue to gather dust until I am ready to upgrade my current system.

check MS webpage:

OEM system builder licensing

as a system builder you get some "goodies" but guess its still a no go for OEM version of windows to a new motherboard