I bought a computer off Kijiji that was from someone who builds them for cheap. I bought it for a plex server.
I recently did a hard drive check, and the hd is getting spotty.
I did a check for windows license and it says it’s “retail” with a partial key. I was thinking of buying a new SSD to put in but how do I get a windows key now?
I’m somewhat computer minded but this one I’ve never dealt with. (I also have no interest in installing Linux right now)
Thanks!
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Enough answers for how to get windows running here. But have you considered switching to Linux?
Yeah if it’s just for Plex something like Endeavour OS would be pretty much painless.
Definitely easier than fighting a key.
Kinda hijacking but I can’t believe how easy endeavor is, like t2linux for mac’s is a mess but half the drivers aur just HAD naturally, and the installation was fully automatic
Yeah I’ve been recommending Arch based did for a while. Personally I’m on void and Alpine, but as a first distro things like Cachy and Endeavour are unrivalled.
If the license is registered to that system changing the hard drive and reinstalling the SAME version of windows won’t be an issue. MS saves your system’s “fingerprint” and as long as you don’t change too many parts, it will recognize it and attach the license back to it.
If you do lose the license on reinstall, there are site that will sell you a cheap license, buyer beware, or ultimately you could switch over to something like truenas (core or scale) to run plex which is license free.