I'm replacing my ASUS Sabertooth Z87 motherboard with an ASRock Fatal1ty Z97 motherboard. I have some major games already downloaded onto my HDD, and the two motherboards support the same chipset, so I'm wondering if I need to reinstall Windows 10 after the update. Will I lose Windows if I change the motherboard?
You can upgrade the motherboard and CPU without reinstalling Windows, and you just need to perform a universal restore with professional universal restore software like EaseUS Todo Backup.
A Windows PC system's motherboard and CPU serve as the connection mechanism for all the PC's different peripherals and parts. The motherboard is crucial in terms of system connectivity and computer performance. Thus, the PC performs better when it has outstanding functionality.
And you need to upgrade your motherboard for many reasons. For example, your motherboard is damaged, or you need to support a new and faster CPU processor.
You'll unlikely need to reinstall Windows, but you probably will need to reactivate. If your motherboard changes, Microsoft will perceive your computer as a different computer. A retail license can typically be reactivated, while an OEM license requires the purchase of a new license.
Your motherboard is connected to the Windows license. Basically, a new motherboard counts as a "new device" for the licensing, and the license won't work with it.
In fact, performing a universal restore can help you change the motherboard and CPU without Windows reinstallation. You need to create a Windows system image on an external hard disk and restore it on your computer. EaseUS Todo Backup can help you in this regard.
It is a simple yet multifunctional backup tool for Windows computers. It can help you back up your system, disk, file, partition, and computer app. It can help you perform a universal restore to install Windows on a hard drive for another computer.
In addition, it lets you make full, incremental, and differential backups. You can also enjoy 250G free Cloud storage for free to store your data in the Cloud.
You do not have to reinstall Windows after changing the CPU or motherboard. You can perform a universal restore with the help of EaseUS Todo Backup.
Related article: Can I Upgrade My Motherboard and CPU Without Reinstalling Windows 10?
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