It is highly likely that they will format the drive that Windows 10 was previously installed on before they install it again. Windows 10 users will, at some point, need to do a fresh install. In fact, when you first get a new Windows 10 system, you should make it a priority to back up the Windows 10 product key. This key is basically a 25 alphanumeric code that you need to authenticate your OS and you don’t want to lose it. In both cases, the license comes in the form of a key. A Windows 10 license can be bought from Microsoft, or you can get Windows 10 when you buy a new laptop or desktop.