OEM licenses can’t be transferred to new devices, and they cannot be used to reactivate Windows 10 when major hardware changes such as replacing motherboards occur. Multiple Activation Keys (MAK) are also shown as Retail in the Windows Software License Manager (slmgr.vbs). All single use Visual Studio subscription keys are also Retail keys. One exception: so-called System Builder versions which are also OEM licenses. If Windows 10 was purchased from Microsoft or some licensed retailer, it is a Retail license. Here’s a good rule of thumb: If a Windows 10 device comes with Windows preinstalled, it is a so-called OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) license. Taking care of your digital licenses is equally important whether you have just one device, or a complex home network with multiple devices. Many of you geeks have a Visual Studio subscription (formerly known as MSDN), with lots of product keys to use.
