windows wont activate

Question

windows wont activate

Chris Boyd 0

I just installed a new mother board and processor upgrade and now my windows won't activate. i went to the reg and got the back up key if that helps

Neil D 34,350 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator

2026-10-01T13:46:25.7366667+00:00
The backup key won't help.

What is the origin of the licence you are using to try and activate.

Was it part of the free upgrade from Windows 10 and if so was that from Windows 7/8.

Did you buy the licence separate from the original device.

Was the licence provided by the system build/manufacturer.

Do you have the previous system listed in your Microsoft account. If so use the activation troubleshooter to try and transfer the licence.

1 answer

Your answer

Neil D 34,350 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator

2026-10-01T13:46:25.7366667+00:00

The backup key won't help.

What is the origin of the licence you are using to try and activate.

Was it part of the free upgrade from Windows 10 and if so was that from Windows 7/8.

Did you buy the licence separate from the original device.

Was the licence provided by the system build/manufacturer.

Do you have the previous system listed in your Microsoft account. If so use the activation troubleshooter to try and transfer the licence.

Answer 1

DaveM121 936.6K Independent Advisor

1

The key you find in the registry is usually just a generic key and that will not work to reactivate Windows, what is the last 5 characters of that product key you found.

2

Where did you get your Windows licence was that pre-installed on the PC or did you purchase a full retail Windows licence from Microsoft or from a 3rd party retailer?

Or is your Windows licence based on a previous Windows 7 or 8 licence?

3

Download the free ShowKeyPlus app from the Microsoft Store.

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

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