The number of devices you can use your Windows license on depends on the type of license you have purchased. There are different types of licenses with different terms for installation and use. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
1. Retail License (Full Version)
- Devices Allowed: A retail license typically allows you to install Windows on one device at a time.
- Reinstallation: If you need to reinstall Windows on the same device (for example, after a system reset or hardware upgrade), you can do so without any issues.
- Transferability: Retail licenses are usually transferable. If you decide to replace your current computer, you can move the license to a new machine, as long as it is only installed on one device at a time.
- Activation: When you switch devices, you may need to contact Microsoft Support for assistance with the activation process, especially if you are transferring the license.
2. OEM License (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
- Devices Allowed: An OEM license is typically tied to the first device it is installed on. This means you can’t transfer it to another device after activation.
- Reinstallation: You can reinstall the OEM version of Windows on the same device if necessary (e.g., after hardware failure or upgrading parts), but it cannot be transferred to a new device.
- Activation: If the hardware (especially the motherboard) is replaced, the OEM license may no longer work, and you may need to purchase a new license.
3. Volume License
- Devices Allowed: Volume licenses are designed for businesses, schools, and large organizations. These licenses allow you to install Windows on multiple devices.
- Licensing Terms: The number of devices that can use the same license depends on the specific volume agreement. For example, a small business may have a license for 5, 10, 50, or more devices.
- Activation: Volume licenses typically use KMS (Key Management Service) or Active Directory-based activation, which allows organizations to manage the activation of multiple devices more easily.
4. Microsoft 365 Subscription (Windows 10 or 11)
- Devices Allowed: If you have a subscription-based plan through Microsoft 365, you are typically allowed to install Windows on multiple devices (usually up to 5 devices per subscription) within the scope of the terms.
- Activation: The subscription allows flexibility for users who need to install Windows on multiple devices, such as personal computers and tablets, with the ability to manage and reinstall Windows on these devices as needed.
5. Family & Education License
- Devices Allowed: Some special promotions or programs (like Education or Family licenses) may allow for multiple devices to be activated under the same license, often limited to a set number of installations.
- Activation: These licenses usually come with terms that allow sharing or family use, but typically, each device needs its own activation key.
Summary:
- Retail license: 1 device, but transferable.
- OEM license: 1 device, non-transferable.
- Volume license: Multiple devices, based on agreement.
- Microsoft 365 subscription: Multiple devices (typically up to 5).
- Family & Education license: Multiple devices (depending on the plan).
For more flexible installation options, especially for businesses or larger families, a Volume License or Microsoft 365 subscription might be the best choice.
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