How to fix activation?

Mia Jezerčić 0 Reputation points
2026-10-12T16:42:33.6433333+00:00

So i just erased my laptop like factory reset and now i dont have windows it says on the bottom right activate windows go to settings to activate windows, did i do something or is that normal and i have to buy the windows activation key? i cant even make a powepoint presentation in the app

Windows for home | Other | Licensing and activation
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  1. Levi Cornwell 255 Reputation points
    2026-10-12T17:50:41.53+00:00

    You probably don’t need to buy a new Windows key just yet. If Windows was activated before the factory reset, it usually has a digital license linked to your laptop, and it should reactivate automatically when you connect to the internet, as long as you reinstall the same Windows edition.

    Go to Settings > System > Activation and check the activation status and any error code. If it still says Windows isn’t activated, select Troubleshoot and follow the steps. You can also check whether you installed Windows Home or Pro, since the edition needs to match your original license. See Microsoft's activation troubleshooting guide.

    As for PowerPoint, Windows activation and Office activation are separate issues. Try opening PowerPoint through Microsoft 365 or Office and check whether it asks you to sign in or activate Office.

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  2. DaveM121 939.6K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-12T17:42:09.7533333+00:00

    Thank you for the screenshot.

    The screenshot indicates there is no PC manufacturers OEM licence stored on the motherboard, and the Installed Key listed will just be a generic key, that cannot be used to activate Windows.

    Where did you purchase the laptop from, is that from a PC manufacturer, a PC Shop or an online retailer, and was the laptop new or used when you purchased the laptop.

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  3. DaveM121 939.6K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-12T17:16:27.93+00:00

    1

    If Windows was pre-installed on your laptop, then, there should be an OEM licence stored on the motherboard, and if you install the same edition (Home, Home Single Language or Pro) that was previously installed, Windows should activate automatically.

    Where did you purchase the laptop and was Windows pre-installed on the laptop?

    2

    Download the free ShowKeyPlus app from the Microsoft Store.

    Please provide a screenshot of that app window and please hide your product key in the screenshot.

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