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YatesCliffside's avatar
YatesCliffside
Iron Contributor
Apr 29, 2025

Can I upgrade from 8.1 to 11 using my OEM Key?

I'm still on 8.1. Cannot risk a clean install on the current SSD with all my work/settings/software. I'm thinking to buy a new SSD and do a clean install of Windows 11 on it, then copy over my work/folders. I have windows 8.1 OEM Product Key. Will this work?

2 Replies

  • Stonehu's avatar
    Stonehu
    Iron Contributor
    May 07, 2025

    When you activate Windows 11 with your Windows 8.1 OEM key, the system essentially verifies your existing legitimate license and grants your hardware a digital license for Windows 11. This digital license is then tied to your computer's hardware configuration.

  • Mikaeliop's avatar
    Mikaeliop
    Iron Contributor
    May 07, 2025

    When you perform a clean install of Windows 11 on your new SSD, you will be prompted to enter a product key during the setup process. Entering your Windows 8.1 OEM key here should allow Windows 11 to activate by verifying your existing license.

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