Error encountered while trying to launch Windows post-installation.
Error encountered while trying to launch Windows post-installation.
My boot drive began failing recently, so I reinstalled Windows. I had an OEM key for a 10 Enterprise model. Before the installation, I unplugged both the old drive and the Ethernet connection to prevent activation in the setup wizard. When I tried using the settings, it didn’t recognize the key or display any error—just an odd message. I’m certain these should be registered in your BIOS. If I connect the old drive back in, plug the Ethernet in, and attempt a reinstall on the new drive, will it work smoothly? I don’t mind spending time now, but I’m worried it might need to be done again tomorrow.
Don't worry about installing a key for Windows. Just set it up and check how it performs. Or use it without a key.
Changing the drive shouldn’t cancel your key, but a motherboard or CPU swap could affect it. You can re-enable it by contacting the service line provided in settings and when asked how many computers this key is linked to, simply stating 0 because your current computer is no longer active.
It didn’t solve everything today; sometimes Windows just feels like bad quality. I connected the old SSD, reinstalled Windows with Ethernet enabled, and followed the installation prompts—first choosing Pro, then Enterprise, and finally entering the keys. After formatting the old drive, it’s still in the PC and will stay for future reinstalls. Updated May 29, 2022 by NICULL. I should mention I don’t have an official key; it’s a generic OEM key from a site priced around 2.5 euros. Who would pay that much for Windows? LMAO.