When you pick out individual parts (motherboard, CPU, GPU) and assemble them yourself, the storage drive will be completely blank. You will need to purchase a license key to activate Windows.
If you buy a computer from a retailer (like Dell, HP, or Apple), it almost always comes with an operating system pre-installed. For PCs, this is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) license . You won't see a separate charge for it, but it’s there.
You cannot change your wallpaper, accent colors, or lock screen themes.
If you have an old computer that you are retiring, you might be able to move that license to your new one.
Technically, Microsoft allows you to download and install Windows 10 or 11 for free using their . You can install it on a new PC and skip the part where it asks for a product key. The Catch: