Windows activation restore

As long as you don't change the hardware overmuch, you've been issued a "digital license," and you've tied it to a Microsoft account, you can do this as many times as you want. The official rearm count is 1001 when you start out, but I've never had this refused, even on heavily and frequently rebuilt test machines.

The key phrase above is "Windows is activated with a digital license." Also, from what I understand, the Hardware ID is what counts, so the Microsoft account makes it easier, but is not 100% necessary.
HTH,
--Ed--

EdTittel said:

...from what I understand, the Hardware ID is what counts, so the Microsoft account makes it easier, but is not 100% necessary.

I've never had a MS Account. Yes, the hardware ID of a PC with a digital license is stored on the activation servers. A clean install of the same edition, Home or Pro (the license is only valid for one edition) will activate automatically.