Transferring a Windows license is a tale of two experiences.
Microsoft categorizes Windows licenses into three main types, and only one is truly portable. windows license transfer
Confirm the status says: "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account" . 3. Transferring to a New PC Once linked, you can activate the new machine: How to check if your Windows is OEM or Retail Transferring a Windows license is a tale of two experiences
This happens if the Microsoft servers haven't registered the deactivation of the old PC. Wait 24 hours, or use the "Troubleshoot" option in Activation settings to force the transfer. Hardware ID Mismatch windows license transfer
To ensure the smoothest transfer for a Retail license, link it to your before decommissioning the old PC: