How to Transfer a Project License to Another PC
How to Transfer a Project License to Another PC
Microsoft Project licenses from a one-time purchase (e.g., Project 2021) are typically licensed for a single PC. When you replace your computer, you will need to transfer your license to the new device. This process is straightforward and, thanks to the modern licensing model, does not require you to remember your 25-character product key every time.
This guide will show you how to properly transfer your Microsoft Project license from an old PC to a new one.
The Key to Transferring Your License
The entire process hinges on your Microsoft account. Since your product key was redeemed and tied to your account during the initial installation, you can manage your license from the Services & subscriptions page on the Microsoft website. The process involves two key steps: deactivating the license on the old PC and then activating it on the new one.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Deactivate the License on the Old PC
This is the most crucial step. Simply uninstalling the program is not enough to free up the license.
Open your web browser and go to the Microsoft account services page: account.microsoft.com/services.
Sign in with the Microsoft account that your Project license is registered to.
Under the “Services & subscriptions” section, find your Microsoft Project product.
You should see a link or button to “Deactivate” or “Manage installs.” Click on it.
Find the computer you want to deactivate and click the “Deactivate” button. This will free up the license for use on your new PC.
Step 2: Uninstall Project from the Old PC
After deactivating the license, you should uninstall the software from the old PC to ensure a clean slate.
Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
Go to Apps > Installed apps (Windows 11) or Apps & features (Windows 10).
Find your Microsoft Project product in the list and click the three-dot menu next to it.
Select “Uninstall” and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 3: Install Project on the New PC
Now you can install the software on your new PC.
On your new PC, open a web browser and go back to account.microsoft.com/services.
Sign in with your Microsoft account.
Find your Microsoft Project product and click the “Install” button.
Run the downloaded installer file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Step 4: Activate on the New PC
The final step is to activate the software on your new machine.
Once the installation is finished, open Microsoft Project for the first time.
A prompt will appear asking you to sign in to activate the product.
Sign in with the same Microsoft account you used in the previous steps.
Project will automatically detect the license and complete the activation. You can now use the software on your new PC.
What if I Can’t Access the Old PC?
If your old PC is broken, lost, or stolen, you can still deactivate the license.
Follow Step 1 above from any computer. You can remotely deactivate the license from the Microsoft account website without needing access to the physical machine.
If for some reason you are unable to deactivate it online, you should contact Microsoft Support. They can help you with the license transfer process after verifying your account details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need my original 25-character product key to install on the new PC?
A: No. Once the key is redeemed and linked to your Microsoft account, you don’t need it again. The license is managed entirely through the account.
Q: My license is not showing up in my account. What’s wrong?
A: This usually means you are logged into the wrong Microsoft account. Try signing in with any other accounts you may have used for the original purchase or activation.
Conclusion
Transferring your Microsoft Project license is a secure and simple process managed entirely through your online Microsoft account. By deactivating the old installation first, you ensure that you can successfully activate the software on your new PC without any license conflicts.
