Lately, we’ve been getting an abundance of calls from customers saying that they’ve received a phone call telling them that their Windows license is about to expire. Let’s see if we can set the record straight.

Versions of the Windows Operating System (OS), if they have been activated, do not expire. Notice I stated “if they have been activated…” Normally, if you buy a new computer from us or some other new computer provider, the Windows OS will already be activated. Activation is simply the OS checking in with the Microsoft servers and verifying that your copy of the OS was purchased legally for the computer on which it’s installed. Once activated, there’s nothing for you to do and the license will never expire as long as your computer keeps running.

However, sometimes when a major hardware change is made – such as a hard drive or motherboard replacement – you might get the message shown in the photo above. Activation of the Windows OS is tied to the hardware of your computer. Changing that hardware may result in you having to activate the software again. When that’s needed, you’ll see the message above.

Still, whether or not your Windows OS license is activated, Microsoft will never call you on the phone!

If you receive a phone call from someone claiming that your Microsoft License is about to expire, HANG UP ON THEM. And, if they call again, HANG UP ON THEM! It isn’t Microsoft and, unless you see the message like in the picture above, your Windows OS is activated and won’t expire.

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