The Windows key isn't working after a reformat.
The Windows key isn't working after a reformat.
Hi Folks,
I've been using Windows 10 PRO for a while now and had to reformat because I'm dealing with a troubleshooting issue (still working through it). After swapping a PSU, I tried reactivating Windows and used the troubleshooter, but it says activation can't be done. I saved a screenshot of the key in my registry before reformatting—this was from an MSDN license at work, so it's a legitimate one (not cracked or from another source), coming from Microsoft.
I went through troubleshooting steps, but it just keeps prompting "try again later." Should I just contact MSFT support and provide the key? The hardware hasn't changed except for the PSU.
It was initially an MSDN license. The requirement to reactivate came from something other than just switching the power supply.
I updated my 980 PRO, which had the OS installed. Five years ago I set this up and don’t remember if the admin account was originally logged into my live ID. I still have a screenshot of the key from when I went into the registry before reformatting, but it doesn’t work now. I wasn’t sure if the 980 PRO was the issue, so I tried using a 970 that was already in the motherboard, only to find it was related to storage (I was checking if an SSD was the problem).
I contacted MSFT just to double-check, wondering if I missed something. I’m considering waiting to see if it’s a server-side issue—what the expert suggested.
Sure thing, let's keep it straight. Probably because I got it through MSDN—back when I had a license from an old company (that was great). When I reformatted on the new machine, I made sure to include the key during setup (it wasn't connected to the internet), and it worked fine. *shrugs*
It might be related to how I got it since it wasn't a standard retail purchase. Those MSDN licenses usually cost thousands, but I never had to pay them (they were meant for the dev team at the tech company I worked for).
Edit - double check... It did indicate it wasn't activated, and then the troubleshoot option in security recognized my old computer linked to my MSFT account. Anyway, lol.
I previously used a TechNet license on lab machines at work, but that only covered the company premises. After TechNet ended in 2013, it’s unclear if the current owner was still the same entity. Microsoft licensing can be complicated, even for their representatives. I’m sure you understand.
They were provided to personal accounts (likely for reasons they changed it) so I have the key – it’s something you can use for personal benefits from the Company at that time. It turned out I had to enter it during Windows installation, which then activated it properly. Apparently the troubleshoot site wasn’t working (it suggested trying again later), and I was just impatient (probably). The next day it worked, and I registered it to my live account – now everything is fine.