I upgraded to windows 10 from 8.1. I did create an ISO flashdrive of windows 10. If I was, for example, to put in a new hard d

[retiredbrooklynboy]

I upgraded to windows 10 from 8.1. when windows 10 came out. I did create an ISO flashdrive of windows 10. Let's say, for example, that I needed to install a new hard drive, in the instructions mentioned, they say that I would need to put in the "product" key,
where would I get that?

 

[USAFRet]

I upgraded to windows 10 from 8.1. when windows 10 came out. I did create an ISO flashdrive of windows 10. Let's say, for example, that I needed to install a new hard drive, in the instructions mentioned, they say that I would need to put in the "product" key,
where would I get that?

I don't know what instructions you read, but no, you will NOT need the license key for this WIn 10.

When you Upgraded, you now have what is called a 'digital entitlement'. This is stored at the Microsoft activation server farm.

When you need to reinstall on a new hard drive, when it asks for the license key...there is a link at the bottom "Skip".
Click that and proceed. It will activate itself when the system goes online.

Also, you might want to create a new USB or DVD. The old one you have will have to run all the intervening updates.
A new one created today will have all of that in it already.

Create a new USB or DVD here: https/www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

 

[USAFRet]

Also, if you wish to change other parts in the future, like the motherboard, Read and do this before you change any parts:
https/support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/20530/windows-10-reactivating-after-hardware-change
http/www.tomshardware.com/forum/id-3164428/windows-build-1607-activation.html