When your PC goes through these error codes, you can run the system as usual, but several customizations, security patches and updates, and other personalization features will be limited. Luckily, you can try several methods listed below to activate your Windows and eliminate the error message.
What Causes the Error
How to Fix “We Can’t Reactivate Windows on This Device”
Restarting the computer can work wonders in many cases. It may also help remove the error message if it is caused due to some temporary system glitch.
Incorrect product keyCorrupted system filesFake License keyIncompatible product keyMalware attackOutdated driversExpired product keyNon-transferable product keyDelay in new key registration to the Microsft server
Likely, many users have suggested leaving the error message for around two days have resolved the issue. When your computer goes through significant hardware changes, the Microsoft server may need time to recognize it to activate the Windows. So, leaving the error as it is for a few days may be a good idea. However, if the problem doesn’t resolve on its own, you can try the fixes listed below.
Reactivate Windows Using the Correct and Valid Product Key
It is necessary that you have a valid and correct product key to reactivate Windows on your PC. It is also essential that the product key should be compatible with your PC’s Windows version. The product key of Windows 7 or 8 won’t activate Windows 10. With the proper product key, follow the steps below:
Windows Activation via Command Prompt/ Windows PowerShell
You can also use the Command Prompt or the Windows PowerShell to reactivate windows. This method is handy when Windows Activation is unachievable through the usual method.
Buy Windows Digital License and Activate the Windows
It is probable that many users misplace the activation product key and face the activation error in the computer. You can check out the Microsoft Store, get a Digital License, and activate the Windows on your PC. To do so, Once you buy the Digital License, log in to the PC with the same Microsoft account. Also, you will need to connect your PC to the internet to activate Windows.
Run Activation Troubleshooter
When your computer undergoes a certain hardware change, it is likely that Windows can’t validate the computer as the same device. It results in Windows being deactivated, and you see the error message. In such a scenario, you can use the Windows Activation Troubleshoot option. It will link your Microsoft account and make the Microsoft server recognize your device with new hardware.
Execute a Full Scan of the PC
The error message can also emerge when the computer is attacked by malware or virus. The activation files may be infected by viruses or malware and obstruct your computer. Hence, you see the activation error message. The most helpful way to handle the situation is to run a full scan and eliminate any discovered threat.
Operate the SFC Scan
It’s worth noting that your computer system operates using multiple essential computer files called system files. Any issue with these files causes several problems with the computer’s functioning. The windows activation issue is one of them. So, executing the SFC scan can help you check and repair the corrupted system files.
Update Windows
The existing problem can appear when your PC drivers require an update. The computer system operates smoothly with the combination of several drivers. And these drivers need a timely upgrade to maintain the smooth functioning of the PC. One of the ways to update is to go through Device Manager. But, the process can be lengthy as you have to click on every driver and update the driver for everything. Instead, you can opt for the steps below to check for every available update and download it for your drivers.
Seek Microsoft Support’s Assistance
If the methods mentioned above didn’t work, you should consider reaching out to the Microsoft Support Page. Here, you can explain your issue, and the Microsoft support team will have a look and provide solutions to your issue. You can also explain all the fixes you used to give them more insight and make the process easier. Likely, you can go to the start menu and type Get Help. Open the app and state your problem. It will show the list of recommended solutions. You can click Contact Support, provide more details of the problem, and follow the concurrent steps.
