Windows 10 Activation Issue


  1. webbj
    Posts : 13
    Windows 10
       New #1

    Windows 10 Activation Issue


    I started out with a Windows 7 install years ago on a built PC and did the free Windows 10 updated later down the road to Win 10 Home. No clue what I did with the Win 7 key. I just built a new PC and transferred the hard drives over and of course I need to reactivate. The only two options under Setup/Activation is troubleshooting and Change Product Key. Found a tutorial on the troubleshooting process for activation but led me to no solution. The other is self explanatory. I came across a post in the Windows forum to create a script to pull the Windows keys and it pulled a key but when I enter it under change key, I'm told it doesn't work. Is there a solution to getting my Windows activated again without a new key? Thanks
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  3. NavyLCDR
    Posts : 18,438
    Windows 11 Pro
       New #2

    Call Microsoft on the phone.
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  4. Bastet
    Posts : 2,555
    Windows 10 Pro 64bit
       New #3

    Was the Win 7 key OEM or retail? If OEM then it cannot be transferred to a new PC.
    Under activation is there an option for ‘I’ve changed Hardware’? What happens if you choose this?
    Have you tried the generic key for the version (Home or Pro) you have?
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  6. NavyLCDR
    Posts : 18,438
    Windows 11 Pro
       New #4

    Bastet said:
    Was the Win 7 key OEM or retail? If OEM then it cannot be transferred to a new PC.
    That actually is not true any more.

    Windows 10 Activation Issue-capture1a.jpg

    Windows 10 Activation Issue-capture2.jpg

    Windows 10 Activation Issue-capture3.jpg

    Windows 10 Activation Issue-capture3a.jpg

    In addition, you can even switch between OEM and Retail channels:

    Windows 10 Activation Issue-capture3b.jpg
    Last edited by NavyLCDR; 16 Nov 2022 at 12:36.
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  7. Bastet
    Posts : 2,555
    Windows 10 Pro 64bit
       New #5

    Thanks @NavyLCDR.
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