Since we have identified the potential causes of this issue, let’s explore the most effective solutions to get rid of this error message.
1. Run the Activation Troubleshooter
If you have made any hardware changes to your system, such as replacing the motherboard, you can try running the activation troubleshooter. When you activate your Windows, Microsoft stores the activation status and links it with the motherboard, so you don’t need to activate Windows every time you install it on the same device.
2. Check Microsoft Account
Another common cause of this issue is that you don’t have the correct Microsoft account logged in, which you used to purchase a license key. By logging in to the correct Microsoft account, you should be able to reactivate Windows.
3. Re-enter the Product Key or Reactivate Windows
If you have a product key, you can simply re-enter it to activate Windows again or you can trigger the automatic online activation by using a couple of commands. These commands will contact the Microsoft server to activate Windows using the digital license tied to your motherboard.
4. Contact Microsoft Support
If nothing works, you can try contacting the Microsoft support team, especially if you changed the hardware on your device, like the motherboard. The support team can provide you with a direct solution or guide you through phone activation.
