I can tell you don't change the HOST NAME if you re-install windows (or the motherboard). Though that may not be a solution, it's a rule for linux. I can re-install linux and not re-install MM if I my (general settings) are the same and I'm on, relatively, the same PC

Hi all,

thanks for the replies. Yes, I agree that it would be better to give mathematica users a way to deactivate the license before reinstalling windows in order to avoid jumping through silly hoops just to get it working again.

Last night I was hoping to do some more study in a complex number class I am enrolled in, I had been taking notes in mathematica, but am unable to continue as I have to wait until wolfram support decides to reset my activation number.

John - my activation code doesn't work. You are having a go at me for something that isn't relevant. It is the exact same machine, exact same hardware. I just had to reinstall Windows 10. Like I said, I tried to find out if there was a way to deactivate my license prior to the uninstallation and reinstallation process, but there isn't. For whatever reason, the activation code wouldn't work. I am familiar with the terms of the license. If I wanted to move this license to a different machine I am aware that I have to do a system transfer, but I am not in this case.

Just re-use your activation code like everyone else. (unless your installing another copy on another computer: which is a breach of license if your using it on two different computers. but the same restriction is present for running Windows 10 - so its' one you should be familiar with)

You bought the product acknowledging you agreed to use it as intended. Wolfram can't possibly know if you wish to "change computers" in the future to something un-supported. That's clearly outside of any store purchase scenario.

I sympathize with you, I wish I could transfer my 11.x license between an imac and win10 in seconds (dis-allowing the other computer to run at the same time). But I can't either. The problem is people steal.

You DO NOT need a system transfer license if your mac mini has to be re-installed. I can't say why. I might add I cannot verify that a STL is needed for re-installing WIN10. My guess is no: not unless you walked it to a different computer. (the license is clear you can only have one running installed copy per purchase)

If you speak to wolfram they might be happy to give discount on a second "home use" copy. MIght.

Mathematica is an excellent system it's well worth keeping on a "stable computer" (perhaps a mac mini) and leaving installed for continual use (rather than on a PC that is continually part hacked or continually requiring re-installation (win10? i didn't know that mine seems ok).

I used to be frustrated with it when I had a "PC from parts", but it was well worth it, and I keep it on a mac mini now.

Just call 1 800 wolfram, follow prompts to licensing and tell them you need to reactivate your Mathematica. Then they will reset it so you can.